Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it’s a present reality with dire consequences. The urgency to act has never been greater. Here’s why:
1. Rising Temperatures1
Global warming, primarily caused by human activities, has led to a rise in average temperatures worldwide1. Earth has already warmed by about 1 degree Celsius since the 19th century, and we’re on our way toward 1.5 degrees C by as early as 20301. This increase in temperature is disrupting our climate and exacerbating extreme weather events1.
2. Extreme Weather Events1
Rising temperatures have worsened extreme weather events1. We’re witnessing more intense heatwaves, droughts, floods, and hurricanes1. These events have exposed millions of people to acute food insecurity and reduced water security2.
3. Environmental Impact1
The environmental impact of climate change is already visible. Chunks of ice in the Antarctic have broken apart, wildfire seasons are months longer, and coral reefs have been bleached of their colors1. Climate change has also led to species loss and extinctions2.
4. Health Risks1
Climate change poses significant health risks. Rising temperatures have expanded the territory of mosquitoes, increasing the spread of vector-borne diseases1. It has also led to declines in people’s physical and mental health, and premature deaths2.
5. Economic Impact1
Climate change has economic implications as well. For instance, increased evaporation due to global warming has led to 30% more intense rain during heavy downpours in parts of the U.S., causing economic hardship for farmers1.
6. Irreversible Damage2
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warns that missing Paris targets would harm human health and biodiversity worldwide, and risk irreversible losses sooner than previously thought2.
The urgency of climate change cannot be overstated. It’s not too late to slow the pace of climate change and avert the worst impacts of the climate crisis — as long as we act today1. Every rise in warming is worse for the planet than the last, but they’re not inevitable1. It’s time to take action.