What is Climate Change?
Definition:
Long term shifts in the earth’s temperature and weather patterns in particular regions and the earth as a whole. Shifts can be in temperature, precipitation, wind, and sea levels rising.
Generally, is considered human caused, because of:
The release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere
Burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural gas
Deforestation
Industrial processes
The gases trap heat from the sun in the earth’s atmosphere, leading to a gradual rise in global temperature ‘global warming’. This leads to extreme weather conditions.
Is climate change considered a bad thing?
Yes, it is! It is changing the world to become inhabitable for humans. It will affect us as well as most of natural life, except cockroaches because they can survive anything. There will be no planet left for our children and grandchildren to live on.
Greta Thunberg; video from the climate action summit:
Some points from the video –
The younger generation are relying on us to protect the world for them to live in.
We are at the beginning of extinction of the human race.
Governments are all talk and no action.
Science shows how long we have left, and they are not doing enough to prevent it.
Greta Thunberg is a Swedish environmental activist known for her advocacy on climate change and her role in the global youth climate movement. These are some of her arguments:
Urgency of climate action: Greta has consistently emphasised the urgent need for action on climate change. She argues that the world is facing a climate crisis and immediate and drastic measures are required to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Science based policy: Thunberg often emphasizes the importance of making policy decisions based on scientific evidence and consensus. She calls for leaders to follow the recommendations of climate scientists and adhere to the goals outlined in the Paris agreement.
Youth activism: Greta Thunberg encourages young people to get involved and take action to address climate change. She believes that youth activism can have a significant impact on pushing for climate policy changes and holding governments and corporations accountable.
Carbon emissions reduction: Thunberg advocates for a rapid reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to limit global warming. She calls for phasing out fossil fuels, transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement.
System change: Thunberg often criticizes the current economic and political systems, arguing that they prioritise short-term profit and economic growth at the expense of the environment and future generations. She advocates for systemic changes that prioritise sustainability and environmental as an urgent matter.
Consequences of climate change: The Earths Trajectory
Global climate change is not a future problem, it’s a now problem. Changes to Earth’s climate driven by increased human emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases are already having widespread effects on the environment. Effects that scientists had long predicted would result from global climate change are now occurring, some changes are even are happening faster than scientists previously predicted.
Temperatures:
Human emissions of heat-trapping gases have already warmed the climate by 1.1 degrees Celsius since 1850-1900. Scientists have high confidence that global temperatures will continue to rise for many decades, mainly due to greenhouse gases produced by human activities. The global average temperature is expected to reach or exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius within the next few decades, affect all regions of Earth.
Frost Season:
The length of the frost-free season, and the corresponding growing season, has been increasing since the 1980s. The growing season is projected to continue to lengthen, which will affect ecosystems and agriculture.
Precipitation (rain and snow):
Climate change is having an uneven effect on precipitation, with some locations experiencing increased precipitation and flooding, while others experience drought. Projections suggest that while it may rain less frequently in some regions, when it does rain, heavy downpours will be more common.
Drought: Droughts and floods have become more frequent and severe as our planet warms and climate changes.
Heat waves: Heatwaves are projected to become more intense, and cold waves less intense and less frequent. All seasons are projected to continue to get hotter. By the end of this century, if we continue emitting greenhouse gases at our current rate, extreme heat events that used to occur only once in 20 years are expected to occur every year.
Wildfires: Warming temperatures have extended and intensified wildfire season, where long-term drought has heightened the risk of fires. Scientists estimate that human-caused climate change has already doubled the area of forest burned in recent decades.
Hurricanes: Scientists project that hurricane storm intensity will increase as the climate continues to warm. As sea level continues to rise, the severity of storm surges will escalate, increasing flooding caused by heavy rainfall, and increasing overall damage.
Sea level: Global Sea level has risen about 8 inches since reliable record-keeping began in 1880. Sea level is rising because of added water from melting land ice and the expansion of seawater as it warms. The sinking of land along coastlines is becoming more prominent.
Arctic: Sea ice cover in the Arctic Ocean is expected to continue decreasing, and the Arctic Ocean will very likely become essentially ice-free in late summer if current projections hold. This change is expected to occur before mid-century.
Ocean acidification: Increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere also gets absorbed by the oceans, making them more acidic. This can harm marine ecosystems and species.
Ecological impacts: Climate change can disrupt eco systems and threaten biodiversity as species struggle to adapt to changing condition or face the loss of habitats.
Societal and economic impacts: Climate change can have far-reaching consequences for human societies; affecting agriculture, water resources, infrastructure and public health.
We need to minimize negative impacts to safeguard the future of the planet.
What efforts are there to counteract climate change?
Governments around the world have set various goals and initiatives to counteract climate change, aiming to mitigate its impacts and transition to a more sustainable future. Some of the key goals and actions include:
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions - Many governments have committed to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions to limit global warming. This often involves setting specific targets for emission reductions over certain timeframes. The Paris Agreement, for example, aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Transitioning to renewable energy - Governments are increasingly investing in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease carbon emissions. This includes implementing policies to incentivize renewable energy adoption and phase out subsidies for fossil fuels.
Improving energy efficiency - Governments are implementing measures to improve energy efficiency in various sectors, including buildings, transportation, industry, and agriculture. This includes setting energy efficiency standards for appliances and vehicles, promoting energy-efficient construction practices, and investing in public transportation and infrastructure.
Protecting forests and biodiversity - Forests play a crucial role in sequestering carbon dioxide and regulating the climate. Governments are implementing initiatives to protect and restore forests, as well as combat deforestation and forest degradation. Additionally, efforts to conserve biodiversity and protect ecosystems contribute to climate resilience.
Adapting to climate change impacts - Governments are developing adaptation strategies to address the unavoidable impacts of climate change, such as sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and changes in precipitation patterns. This includes measures such as improving infrastructure resilience, implementing early warning systems, and supporting communities vulnerable to climate impacts.
Carbon pricing and emissions trading - Some governments have implemented carbon pricing mechanisms, such as carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems, to put a price on carbon emissions and incentivize emission reductions. These mechanisms help internalize the costs of carbon pollution and drive investment in cleaner technologies and practices.
International cooperation and diplomacy - Climate change is a global challenge that requires collective action. Governments are engaging in international forums such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to negotiate agreements, share best practices, and collaborate on climate initiatives.
These are just some examples of the goals and actions governments are undertaking to address climate change. The effectiveness of these efforts depends on political will, financial resources, technological advancements, and collaboration between governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals.
Is the government doing enough to counteract climate change?
As an individual concerned about the future of our planet, I often find myself reflecting on whether governments are doing enough to counteract climate change. While there have been notable efforts and initiatives implemented worldwide, I can't help but feel a sense of urgency and the need for more decisive action.
On one hand, it's commendable to see governments setting goals, committing to emission reduction targets, and investing in renewable energy and sustainability measures. The Paris Agreement, for instance, marked a significant milestone in global cooperation to address climate change. Additionally, many countries have taken steps to phase out fossil fuel subsidies, promote energy efficiency, and protect natural ecosystems.
However, when I consider the scale and urgency of the climate crisis, it's clear that more needs to be done. Emission reduction targets often fall short of what is required to limit global warming to safe levels, and political gridlock or reluctance to prioritize climate action can hinder progress. Furthermore, vulnerable communities disproportionately bear the brunt of climate impacts, highlighting the need for more equitable and inclusive solutions.
As individuals, we also have a role to play in holding our governments accountable and advocating for stronger climate policies. It's essential to engage in informed discussions, support climate-friendly policies and initiatives, and push for systemic changes that address the root causes of climate change.
Ultimately, the question of whether governments are doing enough to counteract climate change is complex and multifaceted. While there have been positive steps forward, we must continue to push for ambitious and transformative action at all levels of society to safeguard the planet for future generations.
Things each individual can do to slow Climate change:
Individuals can play a crucial role in helping to slow down climate change by adopting sustainable practices and advocating for positive change. Here are some ways in which we can all make a difference.
Transportation:
Air travel is a significant source of carbon emissions. If possible, consider alternative transportation methods for long distance trips, and limit unnecessary air travel.
Use public transport, carpool, or bike or walk when possible.
Consider purchasing an electric or fuel-efficient vehicle
Combine errands to minimise trips and reduce fuel consumption.
Shop Sustainably:
Reduce waste by buying products with minimal packaging and avoiding single use plastics.
Reuse items when possible and recycle to reduce the burden on landfills.
Buy less things and repair what you can.
Invest your money wisely and choose to buy ecofriendly products from sustainably responsible businesses, as local as possible to reduce carbon footprints.
Minimise plastic use by using reusable bags, bottles, and containers. Support policies and initiatives to reduce single use plastics.
Shop locally for the majority of items you purchase, as opposed to online.
Conserve water:
Fix leaks in your home and turn off taps.
Install low flow faucets to reduce water usage.
Reduce Energy Consumption:
Improve home energy efficiency by insulating, sealing leaks and using energy efficient appliances and lighting.
Turn off lights, appliances and electronics when not in use and unplug chargers.
Set thermostats to save energy, particularly programmable thermostats.
Adopt Renewable Energy:
Switch to clean energy sources like solar or wind power for your home.
Support policies that promote renewable energy locally as well as nationally.
Support Sustainable food choices:
Grow your own fruit and veg. or buy veg that is in season only, veg that is not is season is imported from other countries.
Buy locally sources and organic foods when available.
Minimise food waste by planning meals and using leftovers.
Reduce your meat and dairy intake, as the production of these products generates significant greenhouse gas emissions; choose plant-based meals instead.
Plant Green spaces:
Trees absorb carbon dioxide and provide oxygen for humans through photosynthesis. Plant trees in your garden and community where possible.
Educate yourself and others:
Stay informed about climate change and its impacts. Share information and engage in conversating about climate change to raise awareness among friends and family.
Advocate for change:
Contact political representatives to express your concerns about climate change and support policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and that limit global temperature increases.
Participate in climate marches and demonstrations to raise awareness and push for action.
Remember that individual actions must also be accompanied by systemic changes at the government and industry levels to achieve significant progress in slowing down climate change.
Addressing these aspects of climate change requires a multi-faceted approach involving governments, businesses, communities and individuals. Efforts to reduce greenhouse emissions, adapt to changing conditions, and invest in sustainable practices are essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change and work towards a more sustainable future.
How will climate change affect our art practice?
Climate change is likely to have a significant impact on art practice in the following ways:
Themes and Subjects - Artists may increasingly turn their focus toward environmental issues, using their work as a platform to raise awareness about climate change, its impacts, and potential solutions. This could result in a surge of eco-art, addressing topics such as deforestation, pollution, habitat loss, and the effects of climate change on communities and ecosystems.
Materials and Techniques - As concerns about sustainability grow, artists may explore alternative materials and techniques that have a lower environmental impact. This could involve using recycled or repurposed materials, adopting eco-friendly practices in their studios, and incorporating renewable energy sources into their creative process.
Site-Specific and Community Art - Climate change often manifests in specific locations, such as coastal areas vulnerable to rising sea levels or regions experiencing extreme weather events. Artists may engage with these local contexts through site-specific installations and community-based projects, collaborating with residents.
Activism and Advocacy - Art has long been a powerful tool for social and political activism, and climate change is no exception. Artists may use their platform to advocate for policy changes, promote sustainable lifestyles, and mobilize collective action to address the climate crisis. This could take the form of protest art, public interventions, and partnerships with environmental organizations.
Artists have a unique ability to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and catalyze action, making them important allies in the global effort to address climate change and build a more sustainable world.
My Response:
Climate change is something that affects me deeply as a student, both in the present and for my future. It's not just a distant threat; it's a pressing reality that impacts everything from the environment to the economy to social justice.
Although it seems overwhelming, by the scale of the problem, I believe that every individual has a role to play in minimizing their impact and working towards a more sustainable future.
One way that climate change affects me directly is through its impact on the environment and natural resources. From extreme weather events to rising sea levels to loss of biodiversity, the effects of climate change are already being felt around the world. As a student who loves spending time outdoors and cares about the planet, seeing these changes unfold is both disheartening and motivating.
But climate change also has broader implications for society, including economic instability, displacement of communities, and inequality. These are issues that affect everyone, regardless of age or background, and they demand collective action and systemic change.
What do I do to help the cause?
Personally, to help the cause, I do not drive and walk or take the bus or train. I recycle as much as possible of household waste. I encourage everybody in my household to turn lights off and only use the water need and don’t waste it. I like to buy eco cleaning products whenever possible. We also like sustainable toys that can be passed down or sold after use.
When my children were babies, we used washable cloth nappies so that disposable nappies didn’t fill up landfills for hundreds of years. I also buy second hand clothes and items, when possible, to reuse and save money.
I also believe in the power of collective action and advocacy. As a student, I can join environmental clubs, participate in protests and rallies, and advocate for policies that address climate change at the local, national, and global levels. By raising awareness, mobilizing others, and holding leaders accountable, we can drive meaningful change and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
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