Climate change is a term used to describe the increase in the Earth's temperature and the effect it has on the planet's climate system. In a broader sense, it also refers to the changes that have occurred over time in the climate of the planet. The current rise in the global temperature is mainly caused by humans.
Negative human impact
Human activities such as deforestation and the use of fossil fuels have contributed to the increase in greenhouse gases, such as methane and carbon dioxide. These gases trap more heat in the Earth's lower atmosphere, which then contributes to global warming. Wildfires and heat waves are becoming more common due to climate change, and deserts are growing. Warming within the Arctic has led to the melting of ice, permafrost, and glaciers. In addition, rising temperatures are causing extreme weather events such as droughts and storms. Many species are already extinct or are forced to relocate due to the effects of climate change. Even if the world's efforts to limit the effects of climate change are successful, it will still continue to affect the planet for centuries. Some of the effects of climate change include ocean acidification, sea level rise, and ocean heating. The current 1.2 degrees Celsius increase in global warming is already felt by many people. Additional warming of more than 2 degrees Celsius could trigger dangerous climate changes, such as the melting of Greenland's ice sheet. In 2015, countries agreed to keep the temperature increase well below 2 degrees Celsius.
Under the agreement, the world can still expect to see a temperature increase of about 2.7 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. To avoid dangerous climate change, the world must reduce its emissions by half up to 2050.
Problems raised from human negligence
Climate change is also expected to cause more wildfires, longer droughts, and more intense tropical storms. Nowadays, an individual's health can be affected by tiny particles in air pollution, which can cause heart attacks and stroke by penetrating the heart and lungs. They can also trigger an inflammatory response in the body as the immune system tries to fight them off. It's estimated that around 3.6 to 9 million premature deaths occur annually due to air pollution. According to Kari Nadeau, the director of the Stanford University's Sean Parker Center for Asthma and Allergy, people over 65 are most at risk from air pollution. However, other individuals are also affected by this harmful effect. In addition to affecting people with respiratory conditions, air pollution can also trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. This could mean that they experience prolonged and severe allergic reactions. For people with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, this can be a serious issue. As the body produces mucus to remove airborne particles, it can suffocate the respiratory system. Wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change.
According to a study, wildfires in the US contribute to the country's dangerous air pollution. The smoke that comes from these fires contains various harmful chemicals and particles, such as rubber tires. High levels of pollen can lead to severe asthma attacks and even death. In 2016, a thunderstorm and a combination of high levels of pollen caused a massive asthma epidemic in Australia, which led to the deaths of over 10 people. Another problem is the amazingly high and extreme heat levels. Some problems of high heat levels that came up are: Being constantly exposed to excessive heat, it can affect the body's ability to release heat. This can lead to various health conditions, such as heart failure and stroke. The heart has to exert more effort to pump blood to the other organs, and sweat can leech away vital nutrients such as potassium and sodium.
The body can get used to dealing with heat, but it can also break down certain muscles. For instance, sweating can help the body cope with the heat. However, in a hot weather, the cells and tissues in the heart can die. Additionally, getting too dehydrated can also lead to kidney damage, as well as other health conditions. For people with already failing kidneys, this can be a serious issue.
Safeguards to ensure a liveable future
Spread the world:
You can encourage your friends and family reduce their carbon pollution by joining communities like Count Us In, a global movement that aims to inspire a billion people to take action on climate. According to the organizers of the platform, if everyone took the necessary steps to address the issue, it could help cut down on greenhouse gas emissions more or less up to 20%. You can also participate in the United Nation's ActNow campaign, which aims to raise awareness about climate change and sustainable development.
Keep up the political pressure
Even though it might seem intimidating, your voice always matters. Because of the climate crisis, politicians need to be involved. Everyone must rise to the challenge and make a difference. You can suggest to local businesses and politicians cut down on carbon pollution by lobbying them.
Transportation
Around a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation. Cities around the world are implementing policies aimed at reducing travel, to prevent pollution. Here are some simple steps you can take: leave your car behind and walk or cycle to wherever you need to go, only problem of applying that might be the weather conditions. If you have to drive, try to get in a car with other people to cut down on your trips, therefore less CO2 emissions. Also, it would be a better idea try using more the buses, trains and other large vehicles, which can transport many people at once.
