In recent years, global warming has caused considerable disruption to the patterns of weather around the world. Temperature increases, extreme rainfall and shifting climate patterns have all been linked to climate change, creating a severe problem for humanity, especially in the poorest parts of the world. In an effort to better understand the effects of global warming on weather patterns, this op-ed will explore the main implications, how we can respond and some potential solutions.
The unquestionable association between increasing average temperature and global warming has, unsurprisingly, had an impact on weather patterns everywhere. The rising temperature has, in turn, increased the fire and drought risks, particularly in the most vulnerable parts of the planet. According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, human activities have contributed significantly to drying out areas that were once more humid. For example, the Sahara desert, once a green grassland, is now one of the driest regions on earth as a result of activities like farming and mining.
The increase of average global temperature has not only affected the level of rainfall, but also the intensity and frequency of storms. Many coastal and low-lying regions are far more prone to hurricanes, typhoons and other extreme weather conditions. The climate crisis has exacerbated the destructive impact of these storms, which leads to high death tolls and complicated situations for emergency services. Droughts are more frequent and longer as well, creating devastating food and water shortages in already fragile regions.
The primary goal is to alter our current trajectory, and to mitigate the effects of global warming and its consequences. To do this, we need to rapidly and radically reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. To ensure sustainable development, governments and the private sector must adopt primarily green policies which include the end of fossil fuel subsidies, the construction of renewable energy projects, the establishment of conservation programs, and the introduction of green taxes. We cannot ignore our responsibility to protect the environment and the planet.
Another potential strategy to weather-proof regions from the impacts of global warming could be the use of geoengineering. This involves a range of tools to reduce the amount of energy from the sun that gets to the Earth’s surface. For example, solar radiation management (SRM) options seek to divert some of the sun’s rays back into space. Along with reducing greenhouse gas emissions, this technofix could help reduce the level of global warming which in turn, could help reduce the intensity of extreme weather patterns.
Though our global average temperature has increased by 1.1°C since the Industrial Revolution, it is yet to reach the 1.5°C considered by the Paris Agreement to create irreversible destruction. With that in mind, it is necessary to act swiftly, since the longer we delay, the more destructive the possible outcomes. We must also think longterm; as the consequences of global warming-induced extreme weather will expand and become more dangerous as temperatures continue to rise.
It is essential for us to recognize this crisis and to rise to the challenge. Renewable energy sources, economic incentives and geoengineering could help us prevent the worst of our future climate troubles. Regardless of the strategies adopted, we must be informed, swift and proactive in our response if we are to secure a sustainable future for our planet.
