Did you know that the Earth’s climate is changing at an unprecedented rate? Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels.
Since the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver of climate change. Burning oil, gas, and coal produces greenhouse gases that wrap around the Earth like a blanket, trapping the sun’s heat and raising temperatures. The concentration of these gases is higher now than at any time in the last 800,000 years.
The impacts of climate change are far-reaching. Rising global temperatures have already led to observable effects on the environment. Glaciers have shrunk, ice on rivers and lakes is breaking up earlier, and plant and animal ranges have shifted.
According to the United Nations, we must limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius to avoid the worst climate impacts. This requires cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050.
Everyone can help combat climate change. Simple actions like reducing energy use, choosing renewable energy, eating more plant-based foods, and reducing waste can make a significant difference collectively.
