Addressing Climate Change

Urgently Addressing Climate Change

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing humanity today, as the affects it has on the environment are not as publicized as it is needed. When referring

Conservatory at the Bellagio

to climate change, issues such as long-term temperature change and weather patterns have shown to need addressing. A lot of evidence points to human activities such as burning of fossil fuels are the cause of such pressing issues. It refers to significant changes in global weather patterns over extended periods, and human activities such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels, contribute as its driving force. If these activities are left free to continue, the overwhelming scientific consensus indicates that the Earth will face increasingly catastrophic consequences, including rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and widespread ecosystem disruptions. I believe that there is a need to explore the causes, effects, and necessary solutions to the growing threat of climate change and to raise awareness of pressing issues referring to climate change.

What Causes Climate Change?

Increases in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, most notably carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) contribute to climate change. Using gasoline to drive a car, or burning coal to heat a building contribute to emit greenhouse gases that cause climate change. These gases trap heat from the sun, preventing it from escaping back into space and creating a "greenhouse effect." The burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas for energy is the largest contributor to this phenomenon.

Industrial activities, transportation, and electricity generation release large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere, leading to a rapid increase in global temperatures.

Deforestation also plays a significant role in climate change. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. However, when trees are cut down or burned, not only is this carbon storage capacity lost, but the stored CO2 is also released back into the air. Agricultural practices, including livestock farming, contribute to methane emissions, while the use of synthetic fertilizers releases nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas.

Effects of Climate Change

The effects of climate change are already visible in many parts of the world. The rise in global temperatures is particularly worrisome. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the Earth's average temperature has risen by approximately 1.1°C since the late 19th century. Further research could support that this warming trend is linked to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, contributing to rising sea levels. Coastal cities and small island nations are particularly vulnerable to this threat, with millions of people potentially displaced due to flooding.

In addition to rising sea levels, climate change is responsible for an increase in the frequency and severity of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and wildfires. Warmer temperatures lead to more intense storms, while prolonged heatwaves contribute to droughts that devastate agriculture and water supplies. These environmental changes also disrupt ecosystems, putting many species at risk of extinction. For example, coral reefs are dying due to ocean acidification, while species like polar bears and penguins are losing their habitats due to melting ice.

Solutions to Climate Change

Addressing climate change requires coordinated global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to its unavoidable impacts. One of the most effective ways to mitigate climate change is by transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, which produce little to no greenhouse gases.  Many countries have already begun investing in green technologies, but more needs to be done to phase out fossil fuels entirely.

Reforestation and afforestation are critical for absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. Protecting existing forests and planting new ones can help offset some of the emissions produced by human activities. Additionally, sustainable agricultural practices, such as reducing livestock farming and minimizing the use of synthetic fertilizers, can significantly reduce methane and nitrous oxide emissions.

International agreements, like the Paris Agreement, play a crucial role in uniting countries to combat climate change. This accord aims to limit global temperature increases to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to keep the rise below 1.5°C. To achieve this, governments must implement policies to encourage energy efficiency, promote sustainable transportation, and invest in carbon capture and storage technologies.

Conclusion

The challenge of climate change is immense, but it is not insurmountable. With urgent action and global cooperation, we can mitigate its worst effects and create a sustainable future for generations to come. The solutions are within our grasp—what is needed now is the political will, public awareness, and collective commitment to making the necessary changes. The cost of inaction is too great, and the time to act is now.

Citations

 United Nations. (n.d.). What is climate change?. United Nations. <https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/what-is-climate-change>

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. IPCC. (n.d.-a). https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/sites/3/2022/03/03_SROCC_Ch01_FINAL.pdf