A child born next year will be 75 as we reach the end of the century. Their grandchildren may be 75 around 2150 and could be your great grandchildren. 

We know we are coming to the end of what is likely to be the hottest year on record. The climate science clearly indicates that without a rapid reduction in emissions, we are likely to reach a global average temperature increase of 1.5 degrees by the end of this decade. 

In the UK our average per capita territorial GHG emissions is about 6 tonnes, which we need to reduce by 50 per cent by 2030.

Today's children could reasonably have expected us to take regard of the warnings given by scientists over the past 40 years to protect their future and that of their children. 

Three weeks ago, many of us remembered the sacrifices made by those in our parents and grandparents generation who gave their lives for the good of future generations. These were our ancestors.

How will future generations remember us? 

Maybe this Christmas the best present for our children is one which contributes to protecting the future for them, their children and the generations to follow.

Maybe make a pledge to the children in your life to examine your individual lifestyle emissions, but more importantly, work with others to persuade governments globally to introduce systems change through policy reform, funding strategy reform and a mindset change. 

We have the choice to make a difference now – our great grandchildren don’t. It's time to be that Good Ancestor.

Dr Richard Sharp

Winterslow