climate change – mackaycartoons

Tricks, Treats, and the Quest for Clarity

April 19, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Saturday April 19, 2025 | Newsletter 27

From the last seven days, we explore the illusions cast by political figures in their campaigns, the looming influence of external forces, and the urgent call for transparency as the election approaches.

Monday April 14, 2025 | Rerun of the week: PP’s Whack-a-mole (From Saturday May 4, 2024)

In a rerun from almost a year ago, we critique Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s proposal to use the notwithstanding clause, which allows governments to override Charter-protected rights. The cartoon highlights risks to judicial independence and public trust, especially as Poilievre aims to bypass a Supreme Court ruling on life sentences without parole. Recently revisiting this idea raises fresh concerns, especially with parallels to Trump’s influence in the U.S. By signalling a willingness to sidestep court decisions, Poilievre risks losing support from voters who value judicial checks and balances. A more nuanced approach could help him respect judicial independence while advocating for his policies.

Tuesday April 15, 2025 | The Illusionists’ Show

In Canada’s 2025 election, Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre act as political magicians. Carney’s temporary tax break and Poilievre’s climate denial, represented by a gorilla, are tricks that vanish once the election ends. Poilievre’s lack of a climate plan puts him behind, while Carney is ready to lead the conversation on sustainability. True leadership must tackle real issues once the illusions fade.
Youtube: Master illusionists of Environmental Policies

Wednesday April 16, 2025 | Tariffs, Turmoil and Thrones

Ontario’s chamber is the stage. Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont delivers the Speech from the Throne. Premier Doug Ford sits on her left, frowning and saying, “Ontario is not for sale!”—a jab at U.S. President Donald Trump, who grins on the right, loving the regal vibe. While Trump revels in the theatrics, Ford faces the challenge of dealing with tariffs and local issues. This scene highlights Ford’s effort to stand firm against Trump’s king-like charm.
Youtube: Shopping For Thrones

Thursday April 17, 2025 | Trump’s Influence in Canada’s Leaders’ Debate

In the debate spectacle, the caption “Knockout Punch” captures viewers’ anticipation for dramatic moments, much like race car crashes or hockey fights, and takes on a double meaning with Karoline Leavitt’s involvement. Her attractive and confident exterior contrasts sharply with her contentious role as a spokesperson, where she frequently berates reporters and spreads misinformation, echoing Trump’s rhetoric instead of effectively bridging the U.S. executive branch and the media. At her White House podium she boldly asserts that Canadians would benefit from becoming the 51st state, eliciting concerned looks from Canadian leaders and humorously critiquing U.S. influence on Canada. This statement highlights the underlying, ever-present threat of annexation, a not so funny reality, which looms over the election and remains a significant issue for the foreseeable future, overshadowing domestic debate points.
Youtube: Trump in the Debate

Friday April 18, 2025 | Unpublished Bunny Cartoon

As the 2025 Canadian election hops closer, our “Parliamentary Budget Bunny” lounges majestically on a throne, offering a whimsical critique of political antics. “COSTED PLATFORMS ANYONE?” it quips, highlighting the glaring absence of fiscal transparency from major parties like the Liberals and Conservatives. In a week shortened by Good Friday, this Easter-themed cartoon was edged out in the battle of the bunnies, yet it captures the relaxed approach to political accountability. While the Greens have hopped ahead with their costed platform, it’s more of a participation ribbon given their poll standings. Some voters are left pondering—where will the cuts land as trade tariffs bite, and promises of tax cuts float unanchored by fiscal plans? Deny it at your peril, but austerity is coming, much like the UK’s unforeseen cuts after Labour was given a majority less than a year ago. With election day just a hare’s breath away, let’s demand clarity and brace for the time when fiscal reality takes centre stage, whether we like it or not.

Saturday April 19, 2025 | Poilievre’s Notwithstanding Gamble

Shining a light on Pierre Poilievre’s contentious plan to use the notwithstanding clause, while drawing parallels to Trump’s judicial overreach. Yeah, I went there. Poilievre’s proposal to enforce tougher sentencing for multiple murderers taps into populist outrage but raises alarm bells about the potential erosion of judicial independence. Critics warn that using this powerful clause at the federal level could open a Pandora’s box, leading to a slippery slope where individual liberties are at risk. As Poilievre embraces a Trump-like approach, the question looms: what other rights might he sideline next? With the election on the horizon, this cartoon serves as a timely reminder of the dangers of authoritarian overreach cloaked in populist rhetoric.
YouTube: Easter Bunny Rejection

This week’s dive into Canadian politics shows us that while tricks and theatrics can be entertaining, voters are looking for honesty and clarity. With debates now in the history books, we embark on the final gasps of the 2025 federal election. The conclusion of a turbulent five months in Canadian politics blends this week with Day 100 of the reign of Donald Trump. April 28 will bring clarity to the course Canada will take in the months and years to come.

Thank you to everyone who continues to subscribe to this weekly newsletter! I typically release posts every Saturday morning, offering a summary of the week through my editorial cartoons. My aim is to keep you informed without overwhelming you with constant notifications. Throughout the week, I also share daily ‘notes’ on my Substack, which enrich my weekly newsletters and feature animated versions of my daily cartoons.

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Youtube: Animated Week in Review: April 14-19, 2025

Substack is an invaluable platform for me, especially given the uncertainties that come with being a staff editorial cartoonist. While I remain optimistic about my future, I am acutely aware of the unfortunate layoffs and newspaper closures that have impacted many talented colleagues in our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will always be free. Thank you for your continued support!

Tuesday April 15, 2025

April 15, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday April 15, 2025

Climate Change Takes a Backseat in Canada’s 2025 Election

March 19, 2025

As Canadians head to the polls in 2025, the pressing issue of climate change seems to have been relegated to a whisper amidst the cacophony of economic concerns, tariffs, and geopolitical tensions. The two major parties, the Poilievre Conservatives and the Carney Liberals, have conspicuously sidestepped the climate crisis in their campaigns, raising critical questions about their commitment to addressing what remains one of the most urgent challenges of our time.

Analysis: Election 2025: a voter’s guide to carbon taxes, natural resources and other key environment issues in Canada

In recent elections, climate change was at the forefront, with parties vying to present credible plans to reduce emissions and transition to a sustainable future. However, today, the political landscape has shifted dramatically. According to Vote Compass data, environmental issues have plummeted in voter priority, eclipsed by immediate economic pressures and Canada-U.S. relations. Yet, the urgency of the climate crisis has not diminished; it is merely overshadowed.

September 25, 2024

The Conservatives’ Concerning Silence: Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives have adopted a strategy that sidesteps comprehensive climate policy. By framing climate change as a “global problem” and proposing Canadian LNG exports as a solution to reduce global coal usage, Poilievre avoids committing to domestic emissions targets. This absence of a solid, actionable plan is concerning and unacceptable. While economic growth and job creation are vital, they cannot come at the expense of ignoring a crisis that demands immediate and sustained action.

News: Climate change fades as a campaign issue as tariffs dominate federal election

October 10, 2024

The Liberals’ Temporary Retreat: On the other side, Mark Carney’s Liberals have made a strategic retreat by eliminating the consumer carbon price. This move, influenced by public dissatisfaction and economic pressures, might be seen as a temporary concession—a pragmatic pause rather than a permanent shift. For those concerned about climate change, this decision is a double-edged sword: it alleviates immediate economic burdens but risks undermining long-term climate goals.

The hope remains that this pause is just that—temporary. The Liberals must return to the table with a robust communications strategy, one that clearly articulates the benefits of carbon pricing and other climate policies. The Trudeau Liberals’ rollout of the carbon tax was fraught with challenges, allowing the Poilievre Conservatives to hijack the narrative and cast it as a burden rather than a necessary step towards sustainability.

Analysis: In 2021, there was nearly a consensus on climate change. In 2025, Carney and Poilievre are far apart

March 14, 2024

A Call for Courage and Clarity: The reluctance of both parties to address climate change head-on is a disservice to Canadians and future generations. While other issues understandably demand attention, the climate crisis cannot be perpetually postponed. It requires bold leadership and a commitment to transparent, effective policies that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.

The 2025 election should have been an opportunity to strengthen Canada’s resolve in fighting climate change, not a retreat into the shadows of political convenience. As voters, we must demand more from our leaders—a clear, unwavering commitment to a sustainable future. The time for silence is over; the climate cannot wait.

The Illusion that Climate Change is a Non-Issue – This cartoon is bound to ruffle feathers among both Liberal and Conservative partisans. Yet, as I’ve stated before and will reiterate, my allegiance is to truth, not to any political party. Editorial cartoonists should be impartial, challenging all sides equally. Our purpose is to provoke thought, which naturally may offend those with entrenched political loyalties.

Supporters of Pierre Poilievre might argue against the depiction of him as a climate denier, while Liberals may question why their leader is depicted alongside him. However, both leaders share a stance against the carbon tax. The previous government under Justin Trudeau introduced a well-intentioned tax and rebate scheme aimed at taxing the largest consumer polluters—those with multiple cars, properties, and frequent travel habits—while benefiting the environmentally conscious and less affluent citizens. Unfortunately, Trudeau failed to effectively communicate the policy’s benefits, allowing Poilievre to exploit this communication gap and rally against it.

The consumer carbon pricing scheme, a key tool for meeting Canada’s Paris Agreement commitments, now teeters on the brink of extinction. Mark Carney, in an unexpected move, completed Poilievre’s “Axe the Tax” campaign, dismantling a program that had potential for significant environmental impact.

If Poilievre assumes office, the illusion of his environmental concern will dissipate, aligning with climate-denying regimes. Conversely, if Carney takes the helm, there’s a glimmer of hope for reintroducing consumer carbon taxes, though he remains reticent about his plans, and his supporters remain uncurious.

We find ourselves in a precarious position, seemingly ignoring the gravity of climate change, influenced by misinformation and rhetoric from a conservative leader who dismisses the climate crisis. Drill baby drill, is the mantra of Conservatives, a familiar refrain to was is heard in the south – yes the fossil fuel sector is important especially in light of tariff turmoil, but it is imperative that we remain vigilant, demanding transparency and action to safeguard our planet’s future.

Master illusionists of Environmental Policies – April 15, 2025: https://youtu.be/4wuAP1x6RMY

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Wednesday March 19, 2025

March 19, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday March 19, 2025

Pierre Poilievre’s Plan to Undo Carbon Pricing: A Step Backward for Canada’s Climate Commitment

June 20, 2024

As the climate crisis intensifies, countries around the world are working hard to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet international targets. Many progressive industrial nations have adopted carbon pricing as a crucial part of their strategy to combat climate change. However, Pierre Poilievre’s plan to eliminate carbon pricing in Canada risks reversing the progress we’ve made and could harm our reputation on the global stage.

Carbon pricing is an important tool that encourages businesses to cut emissions by making it cost-effective to invest in cleaner technologies. By putting a price on carbon emissions, we motivate companies to adopt greener practices, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the economy. Poilievre’s opposition to this approach shows a reluctance to embrace the necessary steps for a sustainable future for Canadians.

News: Net zero by 2050 ‘impossible’ for UK, says Badenoch

July 21, 2022

A worrying trend among conservative leaders is emerging globally, as highlighted by Kemi Badenoch’s recent comments in the UK. Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, stated that achieving the UK’s net zero target by 2050 is “impossible” without harming living standards or bankrupting the country. This marks a significant departure from the previous political agreement on the importance of addressing climate change. By aligning with such views, Poilievre risks placing Canada among those countries that are stepping back from their environmental responsibilities.

It’s also worth noting that Canadian conservatives once had a more forward-thinking approach. Under Erin O’Toole’s leadership, the Conservative Party supported carbon pricing as part of a broader climate strategy. O’Toole recognized the need for a carbon pricing system to drive innovation and reduce emissions. However, with Poilievre now leading the party, it has shifted back to outright opposition to carbon pricing, which is a significant step backwards.

August 13, 2021

If Canada rolls back carbon pricing, we could find ourselves among the nations failing to meet their climate commitments. This move would significantly hinder our ability to achieve the net-zero emissions target by 2050, which is essential for tackling climate change. Without a solid pricing mechanism, businesses may lack the motivation to innovate or shift to lower-carbon options.

Moreover, eliminating carbon pricing would damage public trust in Canada’s commitment to international agreements like the Paris Accord. As other countries advance their climate policies, Canada risks being seen as disengaged from the global effort to address climate change. This perception could hurt our international relationships and competitiveness in a world that increasingly values sustainability.

The revenue generated from carbon pricing is also crucial for funding green projects, public transportation, and renewable energy initiatives. Poilievre’s plan to scrap this revenue would rob Canada of essential funding needed to transition to a low-carbon economy, jeopardizing job creation in the green sector.

News: Poilievre says he would repeal federal carbon pricing for industrial emissions

June 2, 2017

In contrast to Poilievre’s vision, maintaining and strengthening carbon pricing would show leadership in climate action. It would send a clear message that Canada is serious about its environmental responsibilities and is committed to a sustainable future.

Pierre Poilievre’s plan to undo carbon pricing is a step backward that could undermine our climate commitments and hinder our ability to meet global targets. It aligns with a troubling trend among conservative leaders who prioritize economic concerns over environmental protection, as seen in the UK with Badenoch’s remarks. It also represents a retreat from the more progressive stance taken by former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole, who understood the importance of carbon pricing. Canada must remain a leader in the fight against climate change, embracing policies that promote innovation and accountability. The time has come to stand firm in our commitment to a sustainable future and reject proposals that seek to undermine our progress. The future of our planet depends on it.

Make Canada a Climate Laggard Again

If there’s one thing we can say about Justin Trudeau’s legacy, it’s that he put a price on carbon—something that had been debated and denied for years, especially under Stephen Harper’s government. Choosing not to commit to carbon pricing put Canada on the global map of climate laggards, alongside countries that talk a big game about caring for the planet but never actually take meaningful action. It was a pretty embarrassing time for us, especially when we were aligning ourselves with the “drill baby drill” mentality of climate deniers in the U.S.

Now, it feels like we’re sliding back into that old mindset with our own Conservative Party. Just when Canada is trying to set itself apart from the U.S. and connect with progressive partners who genuinely care about climate action, Pierre Poilievre pushed hard to axe the consumer carbon tax, got what he wanted just last week when the new PM Mark Carney did that very thing. Now, Poilievre is calling for the elimination of the industrial carbon tax as well. It’s got people questioning: if there’s no price on carbon, what real action does the Conservative Party plan to take on climate change? This stance could very well make them unelectable come 2025.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

5 Years of Riding the Waves of Annihilation

March 11, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Happy Anniversary | March 11, 2025 | Newsletter 21

It’s been 5 years since I first published my editorial cartoon depicting the interconnected crises facing the world – from the COVID-19 pandemic to economic recession, climate change, and biodiversity collapse. This simple illustration has taken on a life of its own, spreading far beyond my original intent.

The cartoon was first published on March 11, 2020, the same day the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. It showed two large waves – one labeled “Coronavirus” and the other “Recession” – highlighting how the public health crisis was devastating the economy.

In the years that followed, the cartoon was widely shared, adapted, and modified by people around the world. Some faithfully recreated the image, while others added additional waves to represent other looming threats like climate change and biodiversity loss. A few even cheekily inserted their own agendas, like the Extinction Rebellion group that slapped their logo over the top.

It is my most published illustration ever.

It was highlighted in a lead article published in a special edition of Scientific American dedicated to the Coronavirus in March 2022. Not bad for someone who flunked Chemistry in high school. Take that, Mr. Bourrie!

The Green Spirits at Westminster

Tracking where this cartoon has appeared has been fascinating – from major publications to grassroots activist groups. In the UK, the “Four Waves” banner was proudly paraded through the streets of Torbay by the Green Spirits environmental group. Then in 2022, the same banner led a climate protest march in front of the UK Parliament.

However, this widespread use raises important questions about the respect for artistic work. While some individuals have sought permission and credited the original artist, many others have appropriated the image without acknowledgment. This disregard for creativity can diminish the original message behind the artwork.

This issue isn’t isolated to just me; many of my colleagues face similar vandalism when signed editorial cartoons are defaced, cropped, and transformed into memes that skew the original messaging of our commentary. This trend not only undermines our artistic integrity but also dilutes the intended impact of our work.

Adding to this challenge is the rise of artificial intelligence, which can hijack our hard work and produce lifeless imitations that lack the nuance and creativity of human artistry. This growing threat raises further concerns about the future of artistic expression and the value placed on original work. More on this topic will be explored in a future post.

Movements like Extinction Rebellion, despite their vital mission to raise awareness about climate change, have faced criticism for their lack of respect for artists’ rights. The reactions of those who alter creative works vary—some recognize their mistakes and offer apologies, while others insist they have the right to modify and share images as they please. This behaviour highlights the ongoing need for greater respect for artists and their creations in our increasingly digital landscape.

Ultimately, I decided it was time to update the cartoon myself, incorporating a fifth “zombie apocalypse” wave. This reflected the growing sense of apathy and inaction in the face of these mounting crises. As one insightful commenter noted, the zombies represent those who passively watch as calamity unfolds, relinquishing their agency.

Seems pretty cute, in retrospect, when I added the fictional threat in 2024, which seem like a lifetime ago.

As we mark the 5-year anniversary, it is clear that a new, even more ominous wave is emerging – the threat of Donald Trump. His aggressive stance on tariffs and talk of annexation threatens Canadian sovereignty, while his plans to trim the civil service with mass firings signal domestic unrest. On the global stage, Trump’s actions to end U.S. security guarantees and his capitulation to Putin by withdrawing support for Ukraine’s war effort underscore a significant shift in international relations.

This new fifth wave represents a direct threat to the established order, challenging both national and global stability. It serves as a stark reminder that the actions of one leader can have profound implications, extending the metaphorical tsunami of crises we face.

The 2025 global measles outbreak has seen a significant rise in cases due to declining vaccination rates, with over 7,600 suspected cases reported worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for increased vaccination efforts to prevent further spread and protect public health. The first wave reflect this with the change from COVID-19 to Measles. The second wave, originally “recession”, has been changed to “tariffs”, again reflecting the actions of one leader.

The soft unveiling of this illustration occurred in a recent Substack post regarding Trump’s disgraceful environmental legacy. This latest version comes with encouragement from Michael Solomon, director of London-based Responsible 100, and the revision is featured in a piece that advocates for responsible business practices in the Trump 2.0 era, cautioning against both apathy and counterproductive “wokeness”.

Five years on, this cartoon continues to resonate globally, serving as a message about the interconnected challenges confronting us. With the addition of the Trump wave, it underscores the urgent need for collective action to safeguard our world from impending disasters. We must confront these waves of crisis with resilience and solidarity before they overtake us all.

The original post from 2020 chronicling the evolution of this illustration is here.

Thank you to everyone who continues to subscribe to this weekly newsletter! This special edition deviates from my usual Saturday morning posts, where I typically offer a summary of the week through my editorial cartoons. Throughout the week, I also share daily ‘notes’ on my Substack, which enhance my weekly newsletters and include animated versions of my daily cartoons.

For now, all of my content remains free, but I recognize the uncertainty of my future as I face the possibility of losing my livelihood after three decades as a newspaper editorial cartoonist. In the meantime, I’m happy to accept pledges of support—these are just assurances of your support without any financial commitment. Your encouragement means a lot and helps me continue sharing my work with all of you!

Posted to Substack

Donald Trump: Dirtiest U.S. President Ever

February 14, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Donald Trump: Dirtiest U.S. President Ever

Make Pollution Great Again

Friday February 14, 2025 | Newsletter 15

While everyone is suffering daily whiplash from the unpredictable actions of the attention-seeking U.S. President, who dictates what we should focus on, I chose this week to shine a light on his abysmal environmental record. Each day, I posted a past editorial cartoon featuring Donald Trump, highlighting his horrific efforts to turn back the clock on progress toward a better planet for future generations.

Throughout his first term, Donald Trump’s actions and policies consistently undermined efforts to protect the environment, setting a dangerous precedent for his potential return to the presidency. This week, we explored his abysmal record through a series of editorial cartoons from that period, illustrating his disregard for ecological integrity. The horrors unleashed during his first term foreshadow an even more troubling future, as there is no indication that his stewardship of the planet will improve.

Sunday: The Legacy of Plastic Pollution

“This is Your Life in Single Use Plastics” (April 24, 2018)

This cartoon highlights the long-lasting impact of plastic waste, showcasing how every piece of disposable plastic carries a story tied to human experiences. During his first term, Trump’s push to roll back environmental protections, including regulations on single-use plastics, exemplifies a neglect of sustainable practices. In one of his early executive orders of his second Presidency he triumphantly put to end perhaps the greatest among the most ridiculous first world problems: paper straws. It was met with roaring cheers within the planet’s greatest throw-away society. His prioritization of short-term political gains over environmental responsibility signals a troubling trend that jeopardizes future generations.

Monday: Make Coal Great Again

Trump: Polluter of the Skies (November 23, 2016)

In this cartoon, Trump is depicted as a giant figure overshadowing a polluted landscape, emphasizing his commitment to reviving the declining coal industry while Canada advanced in reducing carbon emissions. Throughout his first term, Trump rolled back critical environmental regulations to support fossil fuels. This focus on short-term economic interests, at the expense of climate change and public health, raises serious concerns about what awaits in his upcoming term.

Tuesday: Attacking the Great Lakes

Trump at the Great Lakes (March 8, 2017)

In this cartoon, Trump is shown dismantling the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, a critical program for protecting one of the world’s largest freshwater resources. His proposed budget cuts of up to 97% during his first term endangered restoration efforts vital for millions. This negligence toward clean water initiatives highlights a persistent trend of environmental degradation, suggesting that his future policies may continue to disregard essential ecological stewardship.

Wednesday: Withdrawing from Global Climate Agreements

“America First, Planet Last” (June 2, 2017)

This imagery illustrates Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, depicting him as a direct threat to global climate efforts. His exit during his first term positioned the U.S. as an outlier, undermining international cooperation essential for combating climate change. The ramifications of this withdrawal continue to echo, and with Trump’s return to office, American multilateralism isn’t in the backseat as it was in Trump’s first term, it’s tied up and muzzled in the trunk. There is zero reason to believe he will prioritize global climate responsibility.

Thursday: Flaming Misinformation

Trump Surrounded by Wildfire and Misinformation (September 15, 2020)

In the midst of devastating wildfires during his first term, Trump dismissed climate change as a factor, attributing the crisis solely to mismanagement. This cartoon captures the chaos and denial surrounding his administration’s approach to environmental issues. By downplaying the role of climate change, Trump perpetuates misinformation that obstructs meaningful dialogue and action on pressing ecological challenges—a trend that’s already been on repeat in 2025 with the devastating fires in southern California and around Los Angeles.

Friday: America’s Conspiracy Theory President

Politicizing Natural Disasters (October 9, 2024)

This cartoon illustrates the absurdity of politicizing natural disasters, highlighting the dangerous rhetoric employed by Trump and others. As Hurricanes tore through Florida and into North Carolina in October 2024, the sight of politicians leveraging human suffering for their gain was a stark reminder of how far we have strayed from the ideals of public service. The portrayal suggests that as disasters arise, Trump may exploit them for political gain, rather than addressing the underlying environmental issues exacerbated by his policies. His actions to advance conspiracy theories reflect a broader pattern of misinformation and of neglect that not only impacts public trust in essential services but also threatens the planet’s future.

An unveiling… Drum Roll Please…

My hope is the editorial cartoons from this week highlight the environmental issues worsened by Donald Trump’s presidency. His focus on short-term economic gains continues to harm efforts to protect our planet. This has fuelled climate change skepticism, especially with support from figures like Canada’s Conservative leader, Pierre Poilievre, creating challenges for initiatives like the Liberal carbon pricing scheme. Although this scheme was designed to reduce emissions, it has faced pushback due to poor communication and relentless and simplistic political rhetoric.

Last year, to celebrate the 4th anniversary of my viral “waves” cartoon, I came up with two new wave concepts to follow the biodiversity collapse wave: a Zombie Apocalypse and an Alien Invasion. But then, along came Michael Solomon, director of London based Profit Through Ethics Ltd., who proposed a new idea for the fifth wave. With excitement, we unveil a new fifth wave for the fifth anniversary of the illustration.

Drumroll, please …Trump! A fitting representation of the political upheaval that threatens not just environmental protection but the planet in general. To the many skeptics out there, keep washing your hands, and all will be well….

Update: the above illustration is the focus of a March 11, 2025 post

The “Four Waves” cartoon illustrates the growing crises we face, culminating in this new wave of political turmoil. As we reflect on these issues, it’s vital to advocate for accountability and prioritize environmental care for future generations. With Trump currently in office, we need to stay alert to the threats posed to our environment. I hope this series serves as a reminder of the importance of being actively engaged in the fight for sustainable solutions for our planet.

Posted to Substack