Climate Change: A Threat to the Planet
According to a recent report by the United Nations, climate change has far-reaching effects on the planet. Rising temperatures, sea levels and ocean heat are just a few of the severe impacts of global warming. Communities around the world have already experienced drought, flooding, heat waves, and other weather-related disasters due to climate change. The Guna Yala culture, located off the coast of Panama, will soon be relocated from their current coastal island due to the effects of rising sea levels. The threat of climate change is real and immediate.
Despite the severity of the issue, Pew Research Center reports that most Americans view climate change as a lower priority than issues such as the economy and reducing health care costs. One way to change this perspective is to raise awareness about the issue – especially among older generations that call the shots. The BBC suggests that effective communication can help persuade people and move them to action.
The Biden-Harris Administration is also taking steps to address climate change. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced new plans for climate resilience and forest conservation ahead of Earth Day celebrations. Apple has also announced that they have made significant progress toward their own climate goals. Customers are invited to learn more about climate change and take action in their own lives.
On a personal level, many environmentalists advocate for changes in individual behavior to help combat climate change. Peter Singer, a philosopher and ethicist, suggests that changing our diets, reducing meat consumption and eliminating waste can have a big impact.
As the urgency of climate change continues to mount, experts encourage all individuals to take action, whether that is through personal changes or through political involvement. Many groups and individuals are working together to lessen the impact of climate change, but much more still needs to be done to ensure the future health of the planet.
