We are all aware of climate change, the disastrous measures it is taking on our planet. The earth's temperature is rising quicker than ever. However, we are all aware it is down to our actions and behaviours, but from our own homes we can help to make a change.
What is climate change?
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. These shifts can be natural, such as through variations in the solar cycle. But since the 1800s, human activities have been the main reason for climate change, primarily due to burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. The world is now about 1.1C warmer than it was in the 19th Century.
What can we do?
Climate change is not only a national or local problem is it a universal and worldwide issue which will affect every single human being. A study conducted by UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change found just how dangerous our planet could turn to if we do not take action. They found that by 2030, the effects of climate change could be irreversible.
Urgent action is needed to avoid the catastrophic effects of global warming. Without change, the world’s coral reefs could be completely eradicated, and we could see an increase in widespread flooding, extreme heat, drought and poverty.
There are many things we can do that require little change to our everyday lives. If we all follow these easy steps we can hopefully help to reduce the impact we are causing.
Reduce the amount of meat consumed:
Around 40% of Greenhouse gasses come from agriculture and deforestation. The production of meat (mostly beef) drives climate change due to the methane gas it produces while also destroying land for the livestock to graze and live. If we all reduced our intake of red meat slightly it will allow a small change to the contributions of climate change to happen, without affecting our daily lives.
Make your home more eco friendly:
Not only is there a rise in the effect of global warming, there is also a dramatic rise in the cost of living which we are all aware off. However, reducing your household bills by changing to incandescent light bulbs and turning off lights and unplug appliances when not in use also contribute to making your home more Eco friendly.
Reduce, reuse and recycle:
We all know this famous saying, however we can all follow these simple steps to reduce climate change. Our generation no longer rely on high-street shops, everything is bought online where it comes in mass packaging for the smallest item, if we all started to order items with reduced packaging options or order in bulk to save frequent small trips we can make a difference. Once the package is received, disposing this in the correct way is vital, and recycling where we can. In addition, opting to purchasing or giving clothes away to charities instead of throwing them away. This means these clothes can be reused and recycled.
Education:
Understanding climate change is the first step to change. It can lead to encouragement and awareness of how climate change can be reduced and reversed to a certain extent. Climate change should be a well known and understood issue as it affects every single person worldwide. This topic should be taught in schools to allow a wider understanding.
Travel responsibly:
Transport equates to around a quarter of the world's greenhouse gas emissions and is a major factor causing air pollution. By opting to use public transport rather than your car, you can help reduce the effects of climate change.
Are multinational companies to blame?
Multinational companies account for nearly a fifth of global CO2 emissions, researchers say. Global companies such as ExxonMobil, Shell, BP and Chevron are identified as the highest emitting investor-owned companies since 1988. It is also proven that China is the highest country contributing to climate change, with producing 14.2% of the worlds industrial greenhouse gasses emissions. If these companies do not change the way they practice, we could see a 4C increase in the worlds temperature.
Climate change is a scary and daunting topic which is affecting everyone worldwide. As the human race, it is our responsibility to make the change. We can do this by opting to small changes which will have a big impact on our world and future.
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