After years of hearing that the planet is warming, it is likely that most of us have grown tired of this topic. However, if we take time to reflect on our own lives and the changes in weather that we have witnessed, there is no choice but to wonder what is happening and why.
Extreme weather events occur on an unprecedented scale, including heatwaves, crop failures, floods, droughts, wildfires, and tropical hurricanes. Watch any major evening news program. Extreme weather is now a regular topic with massive draughts and wildfires in California and New York; terrible flooding in Kentucky, Texas and along the east coast. It is highly likely that younger generations will experience as many, if not more, of such events in the future.
A recent study warns that current climate policies could trigger up to nine irreversible tipping points, such as ice sheet collapses in Greenland and the west Antarctic, Amazon rainforest dieback, a weakening of the Atlantic meridional circulation pattern, boreal forest moving further north, melting of permafrost areas which release methane, ocean acidification and warming that is killing coral reefs, and a shift in the Indian Monsoon pattern. These climate change 'tipping points' are critical thresholds where small changes can lead to large, often irreversible consequences for the planet.
Experts warn that climate action is doomed unless the global financial system is rewired to prioritize sustainability. The costs of inaction are rising, while the transition to a clean energy economy presents significant economic opportunities. Even though business opportunities exist, current federal attitudes toward the environment and alternative energy do little to encourage investments. The Environmental Protection Agency has eliminated many rules that were aimed at protecting the environment. Pullback of incentives for wind, solar projects and electric vehicles may create additional problems.
Immediate and bold policy changes are necessary to prevent catastrophic consequences. The need for urgent and comprehensive action to mitigate climate change and adapt to its inevitable impacts must become a national priority. The initiatives start with us and our elected representatives. Whether you believe that humans contribute to the problem, global warming is occurring. Why not do your part to minimize any potential human contribution to the problem?
