By definition, climate change is about the long term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Some changes in weather and temperatures are expected and normal. The changes the climate activists are concerned about can date back to the 1800s and is an unnatural shift in patterns. We are experiencing the results of these shifts even today and will continue to do so.
What is the Evidence?
Here are the facts about climate change. Over the past few decades, there have been clear readings showing the increase in the earth's temperatures. Through these readings, scientists have found that the earth's temperature has risen 1-degree Celsius since the year 1900. 2021 data shows that between the years 2010-2020 have been the warmest so far.
We also have photographic data to support the changes in climate in the environment around us, not just the temperature and weather. This refers to glaciers melting and melting of the sea in the Atlantic. We are also experiencing a change of seasons like having an earlier spring. The rise in sea levels is also an indicator of global warming. Sea levels have risen 0.21m between the years 1900-2018. There are many more
It is clear through the examination of evidence that there is an undeniable link between human activity and the changes in climate. Humans have undoubtedly increased the number of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere creating the greenhouse effect.
What is Environmental Change?
Environmental change is a disturbance of the environment, which is usually down to human behaviour. The changes in weather that we experience, such as flooding, heatwaves, shorter or longer seasons. These are all examples of environmental change. Our natural environment has a delicate balance and right now humans and stomping around trashing the place. Many people are unsure whether climate change is real until they begin to experience environmental changes around them.
What are the Concerns?
There are many concerns about the future of our planet. But there are more and more solutions being developed which can give us hope for the future. The there concerns about climate change are as follows:
The bleaching of the coral reefs- The reason the coral reefs are bleaching is that the ocean is 26% more acidic than in 1990. Also, sealife is struggling to cope with the rise in temperatures.
Deforestation - One of the biggest concerns about deforestation in the Amazon rainforest. The Amazon rainforest not only serves a vast green landscape that will trape CO2 but is a hub for creatures all around. The loss of the Amazon is a great loss of biodiversity.
Worsening of extreme weather events - more extreme weather conditions will lead to loss of land, homes, food sources potentially causing a climate refugee crisis.
Loss of biodiversity- A loss in biodiversity helps to improve the health of the earth. They keep the water and air clean, maintain our soil quality and keep our climate regulated.
What are the Solutions?
So what can you do to help? It can all sound very scary, and honestly, it should be. There is a long way for us to go before we can feel safe and secure in the health of our climate. There are a few things you can do to help and get things moving in the right direction. Here are some solutions you can do to help the climate crisis:
Restore nature to help carbon trapping
Reduce your overall consumption
Reduce your use of plastic
Help to protect our oceans
Educate people of environmental issues
Choose more sustainable products
Plant bee-friendly plants (or for any bugs and critters)
Eat a plant-based diet (or more plant-based)
Choose reusable alternatives to single-use items
Use planet-friendly transport
The important thing to remember is that it's not all down to you. Saving the planet is a team effort, so a little goes a long way if we are all in this together!
What is The Impact of Climate Change on Society?
The main impact of climate change on society will be our quality of life. When the weather makes growing food difficult we will find ourselves with a shortage of food. We should also expect a lack of clean safe drinking water. Not to mention increased crowding because of mass migration as some parts of the world become inhabitable. While these concerns are not happing to us right now, this is our future if we don't act now. Think out what the future holds for the young children of the world, and the children to come. For many of us, the climate crisis is already taking effect.
How Can I Help?
The best thing you can do is educate yourself and the people around you. Keep up to date with the latest climate news and advice. Develop healthy, planet-friendly habits. Make an effort to use reusable products and reduce your general consumption. I also recommend finding a way to reconnect with nature.
Reconnecting with nature helps you find a greater appreciation for the natural world. This has been my biggest motivation to help the planet. Take the time to see what is actually in the world around you.
The Takeaway
Climate change is a devastating issue many of us are aware of but the greater population just doesn't know. Learn more to keep an educated position and help those who are most affected by it. The effect of climate change can be scary, but you are not in this alone.
There are many things you can do to help. Start by making small practical changes and develop planet positive habits. Keep reading the facts about climate change to learn what more you can do to help. I highly recommend joining an online community for tips tricks for more sustainable living. It also helps to know who's on your team.
Just remember everyone's journey to sustainability looks different!
What will you decide to do?
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