For many years, humans have disregarded the potential danger of climate change and global warming, disregarding the undeniable evidence that shows how human actions have accelerated the process. Despite the denial, it is undeniable that we are responsible for the dramatic rise in global temperatures and the catastrophic consequences that have come with it.
In recent years, the debate over the topic of global warming has taken a more serious turn where experts from all fields are beginning to agree that human activities are the main culprits. The very makeup of our planet is shifting due to anthropogenic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, with the result being a gradual but steady increase in the global temperature. This is being caused directly by our emission of fossil fuels, industrial chemicals and agricultural methods, as well as our excessive use of ozone-depleting substances that are leading to the warming of our planet.
In addition to this, the current global population is steadily increasing, which is adding to the already overwhelming demand for resources, energy and land. This demand has caused further damage to our planet, with several long-term consequences such as the loss of habitable land due to rising sea level, and the release of large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Moreover, recent research has revealed that human-induced global warming has a direct, long-term impact on our weather systems and climate, leading to catastrophic events like flash floods, storms, drought and heat waves that cause massive damage to agricultural production, wildlife and human life. This is especially true for developing countries who are particularly vulnerable to these extreme weather events due to their limited resources, low-lying regions and weak infrastructure.
Our continued disregard for the evidence of our contribution to climate change and global warming will ultimately lead to catastrophe and disaster. We must acknowledge our part in the problem and take more meaningful action to protect our planet by reducing our consumption of energy, fuel and resources, and replacing these with renewable sources. Studies such as the one published in the journal Nature in June 2019 reveal that our current global warming rate is twice as fast as it was in the past, and if we choose to ignore the science and not act now the consequences will become irreversible.
It is time to prepare for the worst and take responsibility for our actions and the damage they are causing. We need to establish new policies and regulations and hold each other accountable in order to ensure our planet’s survival. In addition, public awareness campaigns must be launched to educate everyone of all ages about the dangers of global warming and climate change.
Humans are definitively accountable for their actions and in this case, each and every one of us needs to recognize our part in global warming, confront the data and take immediate, meaningful steps to make our planet healthier and safer for generations to come.
