don’t wait for the ambulance
Climate change is a complex and pressing issue that continues to shape the world we live in. The gradual rise in global temperatures, largely attributed to human activities such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels, has far-reaching consequences for both the environment and society. From extreme weather events to rising sea levels, the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident across the globe. As we navigate this critical juncture, it is essential to raise awareness, foster sustainable practices, and work towards mitigating the effects of climate change for a more resilient and equitable future.
One aspect of wellness involves giving a shit about the world we live in. This includes the choices we make and the impact these choices have on everything around us.
The climate is warming.
Our actions are speeding things up.
We do not have the ability to adjust to these changes at the rate they are happening.
We need to make changes to the way we live our lives.
Climate Change 101
Climate is the statistical averages of weather over a long period of time.
It involves the behaviour of the entire complex Earth’s systems
ocean (hydrosphere)
all the water on earth
the atmosphere (troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere)
all the ice on earth (cryosphere)
all the life on earth (biosphere)
Short and long wave radiation work to balance heating from the Sun to the Earth
Greenhouse Gases (CO2, methane, water vapor, ozone, chlorofluorocarbons) change this heating/cooling system leaving the Earth warmer than it has ever been.
Some of the changes happening to the Earth are not human-related. Most are.
Why does this matter?
Our use of greenhouse-gas producing items (making of: cement, steel, plastic, electricity, agriculture, farming, transportation, heating, cooling) is problematic and we need to find new ways to do things or the people who are already most vulnerable will suffer more greatly than they already do.
Weather will become more unpredictable and life will be more dangerous.
What can I do?
There are real and perceived barriers to making the necessary changes.
Books including, but certainly not limited to: This Changes Everything , How to Avoid a Climate Disaster and All We Can Save provide excellent ideas on how we got here and how to move forward.
This goes beyond the individual but…
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot,
Nothing is going to get better. It's not.” ―Dr. Seuss,The Lorax
Consider connecting with Bullfrog Power for your clean energy needs
Join World Wildlife Fund Earth Hour this Saturday at 8:30pm EST
Consider your consumption habits and make changes where you can
Consider the sustainability of your food and what you can do about it
If you’re interested in learning more about Climate Change check out: Climate Change Courses
This video is everything. Please take the time to watch it.