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The U.S President Donald Trump was criticized by Sir David Attenborough. He warned Trump over climate change that global warming will generate great social issues during the next 20 years. The natural historian made the comments on during an appearance before the Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy Committee to discuss the environmental crisis. Sir David was asked what his response would be to climate change deniers. He said that those who voice criticism and disbelief regarding climate change should be heard, but expressed dismay over individuals in positions of authority who do not believe that the issue is a matter of urgent concern.

Sir David said that he was sorry that there are people in power internationally who aren’t strong advocates for handling the environmental crisis. He added, “Notably, of course, the United States, but also in Australia, which is extraordinary actually because Australia already having to deal with some of the most extreme manifestations of climate change”. He also said, “Both Australia and America – those voices are clearly heard. And one hopes that the electorate will respond to those”. The broadcaster also spoke regarding Trump’s decision to withdraw the US from the Paris agreement on climate change. In accordance with Article 28 of the deal, the earliest point at which the US can withdraw from it is November 2020.

Attenborough informed the committee that it would be a very sad day if the U.S successfully withdrew from the agreement. The broadcaster emphasized the importance of tackling climate change issues as a matter of urgency. It says, “We cannot be radical enough in dealing with these issues. The question is what is practically possible. How we can take the electorate with us in dealing with these things”. The natural historian compared public attitudes towards climate change to past perceptions on slavery, and said, “There was a time in the 19th century when it was perfectly acceptable for civilized human beings to think that it was morally acceptable to actually own another human being for a slave”.