By Natalia Rueda 
Climate change is no longer a distant concept, it is an urgent reality that is affecting our ecosystems, economies and communities around the world. The escalating crisis demands immediate action to mitigate its impacts and protect our planet for future generations.
Human activities, especially the burning of fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas, have increased concentrations of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, creating what is known as the greenhouse effect and causing global warming.
The science is clear: our planet is warming at an alarming rate. The World Meteorological Organization revealed last Wednesday, June 5, in its annual report that there is a 47% chance that the global average temperature will exceed 1.5°C between 2024 and 2028, up from 32% in the previous report. In addition, the report indicates that there is an 86% chance that any of those years will be warmer than 2023.
According to the UN, the seven largest emitters – China, the United States, India, the European Union, Indonesia, Russia and Brazil, accounted for half of global greenhouse gas emissions in 2020.
The consequences of climate change are evident and are altering our environment in several ways:
Sea level rise: melting of the polar ice caps and thermal expansion of seawater due to rising temperatures are causing sea levels to rise. This threatens coastal communities, causing displacement and habitat loss.
Extreme weather events: We are experiencing more and worse hurricanes, heat waves, floods and wildfires. These events not only cause enormous economic damage, but also result in loss of life and biodiversity.
Alteration of ecosystems: Changes in temperatures and precipitation are affecting ecosystems and species. Many species are struggling to adapt or are migrating to new areas, while others face extinction.
The effects of climate change go beyond environmental damage. Human societies face a complex set of challenges: health crises, economic disruption, migration and inequalities.
Addressing the climate change crisis requires global efforts and local initiatives:
Government policies: International agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, seek to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius and preferably keep it below 1.5 degrees.
Transition to renewables: It is crucial to move away from fossil fuels and embrace clean energy sources such as wind, solar and hydroelectric.
Public awareness: Raising awareness about climate change and encouraging sustainable lifestyles is vital. Each of us can do our part to combat climate change:
- Reduce, reuse and recycle.
- Save energy.
- Use sustainable transportation.