The Earth is changing. Wildfires are burning, Arctic ice is melting, and ecosystems are dying. Science is transparently showing us the real problems that humans are causing for life on earth, yet humans are not responding. As major global issues are arising, scientists and researchers are looking into what we can do to stop or minimize these critical problems.
Although it may be hard to hear in the midst of a chaotic global health crisis, climate change is a huge problem affecting our world now. As carbon emission and greenhouse gas numbers rise every year, so does the heat that they trap from the sun. The effects of this are shown clearly as 2019 marks the second hottest year ever recorded. Because of this change in temperature, the Earth is expected to continue to experience harsh consequences. In regards to the effects of global climate change, an article posted by the National Resource Defence Council states, “As the earth’s atmosphere heats up, it collects, retains, and drops more water, changing weather patterns and making wet areas wetter and dry areas drier. Higher temperatures worsen and increase the frequency of many types of disasters, including storms, floods, heatwaves, and drought.” Other negative effects include air pollution, rising wildlife extinction rates, and higher sea levels. Through this, we can clearly see the multitude of issues developing from this problem.
Looking forward, scientists and researchers are finding new ways that we can change our way of life to better the environment. Although widescale solutions will need to take place in order for major changes to occur, it is important that we, as citizens of the earth, do our own part. Some small steps that individuals have taken to help this problem include using renewable energy such as solar panels and wind turbines, reducing water waste, driving fuel-efficient vehicles, watching food waste, and reducing the consumption of meat (especially beef). Though all of these small changes are beneficial, the most important change we can make is speaking up. Speaking your mind and showing that you care about helping the environment is crucial to advancing in this problem.
In conclusion, the changes over the last few decades are clear and distinct, making plain that the earth’s climate is changing and human activity is the reason behind this major temperature rise. But the future isn’t decided yet, and the changes we make now could have huge impacts on our world in the future. It’s down to us. So what are we going to do?
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