Saving the climate is a goal that justifies inconvenience

Our readers have their say on climate change, the Trump-Kim summit and a love of books

Climate scientists point to the Arctic as the place where climate change is most noticeable, after warming twice as fast as the rest of the world since 1988. David Goldman / AP

I write in reference to your editorial Profligate plastic waste needs action now (June 12): The National's passionate editorial on the scourge of plastic waste was an interesting read and also echoed a very important truth.

It really is high time that people took serious steps to reduce their  single-use plastic usage, start recycling more and work towards saving the environment for future generations.

Already today a number of countries have started implementing policies to eliminate single-use plastics in the day to day lives of their citizens.

As your editorial noted, it might soon be the case across all European Union member states. Saving the environment is an end that clearly justifies the inconveniences of doing away with plastic.

K Ragavan, Denver

Important summits call for serious statesmanship

I refer to your editorial A denuclearised North Korea just moved a step closer (June 11): while everyone is happy that the summit will help to usher peace, was it really necessary for US President Donald Trump to show Kim Jong-un, the North Korean leader, a Hollywood movie-style trailer by "Destiny Pictures" depicting their meeting and the outcome?

After all, Mr Kim Jong-un is not a child who will be swayed by a possible movie on their summit. This was crass sensationalism from the US president and an insult to people’s intelligence.

Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

The road ahead for the US after the Trump-Kim summit will be vague if Donald Trump loses his political compass and takes the wrong path.

On the other hand, the positive developments could be long-lasting as the entire world very much wants peace now.

So Mr Trump and Kim Jong-un can show the way by sidestepping the minor obstacles that are bound to come. What makes me optimistic is the news that the rapprochement has China’s support.

Name withheld by request

A treasure trove of books is the greatest gift for a child

I write in response to your online feature New Abu Dhabi Children's Library to open next year - in pictures (June 12): there is a grave need to offer classes to parents to teach them the importance of reading to their children. This library looks like a great place to do that.

Nicole Long, Dubai

At long last, a library in Abu Dhabi.

Helen Rugg, Abu Dhabi