The scientific consensus on climate change is abundantly clear, and it continues to reign unchallenged: global warming is real and human activity is the primary cause. Some may claim that there is still debate on the issue, but the reality of the situation is that there is no reasonable doubt in the mind of any climate scientist.
The facts speak for themselves. The years of 2016, 2017, and 2018 were the three hottest since records began, surpassing the previously record-breaking years of 2015 and 2014. Sea-level rise and other trends in weather patterns and the atmosphere point to an increasingly alarming state of affairs.
This increased warming, left unchecked, is likely to have a dramatic impact on the planet and its inhabitants. Those negative consequences are already being felt, with increases in ocean acidification, flooding of coastal areas, and the spread of disease among other significant changes.
At the same time, some of the predicted effects of global warming throughout the 21st century are expected to bring certain benefits to humanity. Warmer summers and milder winters in temperate regions of the world could potentially stimulate economies and improve living conditions in certain areas.
However, it is important to note that these benefits will not be evenly distributed. In fact, even if the domestic economy of a given country were to benefit from an increase in total global temperatures, the increase may have a more pronounced impact on the resources and lifestyle of other countries, for example by worsening existing water crises in arid, drought-prone regions.
Moreover, if the planet continues to heat up due to emissions from human activities, it is highly likely that the resulting extreme weather events will cause irreparable damage to ecosystems and nature reserves. In addition, the continued loss of sea ice can lead to the displacement of certain species of animals that rely on the ice for habitat, with potentially catastrophic repercussions for the food chain.
In light of this, it is essential that governments around the world take action to reduce emissions and strengthen global efforts to combat climate change. From changing urban infrastructure to increasing access to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, the necessary changes are both scientifically known and economically achievable.
It is also essential that individuals become more aware of their own impact on the climate by taking action to reduce their carbon emission footprint, such as choosing to live a vegetarian lifestyle, commuting by bicycle, or investing in energy-efficient products.
Ultimately, the effects of global warming are real, and the responsibility to act rests with each of us. While some of the potential effects may bring benefits, the costs of taking no action could be dire. Ultimately, now is the time to lead by example and make real, substantial change if we are to stop irreversible damage to the planet from occurring.