American Museum Seeks To Separate Facts, Politics on Climate Change

The American Museum of Natural History in New York will enter the divisive world of climate change with an exhibit curators hope separates the science from the political controversy. The exhibition, called “Climate Change: The Threat to Life and A New Energy Future,” opens Saturday even as some skeptics continue to question the extent to which humans are responsible for global warming. During the U.S. vice presidential debate this month, Gov. Sarah Palin raised doubts about the causes of global warming. Edmond Mathez, curator of the exhibition, said that in the scientific community the issue is no longer a matter of debate. “The news media was presenting climate change as a controversial issue, which is complete nonsense, it’s not (controversial),” Mathez told Reuters. The museum exhibit will examine the phenomenon of climate change, its impacts — including a model of lower Manhattan amid rising waters — and suggest steps for individuals to reduce their carbon footprints.