Introduction to Climate Change
 

          Climate change has many effects, but most importantly for us, it affects humans. There are numerous ways that climate change is beginning to affect humans. First of all, as the temperature increases, it affects our food supply. It is more difficult for crops to withstand the increasing heat, the ground is becoming more arid, and the seafood that we ingest are diminishing in numbers because of the ocean becoming more acidic. It is becoming difficult for us to have sustainable amounts of food. Climate change also affects our health. The increasing temperature makes heat stroke, skin cancer, and disease even more dangerous and likely to occur. Climate change is also increasing the interactions between humans and animals, which is leading to more zoological diseases in humans. Since climate is also obviously affected, it is also predicted that there will be more extreme weather events, such as tsunamis, hurricanes, and tornadoes, all of which obviously have detrimental effects on humans. All in all, climate change is dangerous and something that is a pressing issue for humans.

               Climate change effects more than just humans. Climate change affects wildlife because it intensifies factors that are already an issue, such as loss of habitat, disease, and loss of habitat. As a result of this, animals are being forced to expand their range into new territories and adapt to new environments. If a species is unable to do these things they become endangered or extinct, which in turn causes a great disruption to the balance of the ecosystem. This then affects the biodiversity of our planet.

               There are many organizations around the country and world seeking out solutions to the problems of climate change. Some government orgs like the EPA and NOAA are researching current data trends and the impacts on the world around us.They monitor global greenhouse gas emissions and atmospheric carbon levels. Other smaller organizations are working on developing strategies for products and systems which can be implemented into society. One of these grassroots organizations is The Biomimicry Institute which seeks out sustainable design solutions based off the systems and forms found in nature. These strategies often help increase the biodiversity of the ecosystems around us. C40, a network of Mayors organized with the goal of building climate ready cities, is also addressing many of the problems involved with climate change. In order to take action against climate change, we need these large scale goals from governments but also networks of smaller organizations addressing specific problems. With everyone working together, creative solutions can be implemented across the board.

               Even though climate change is a big threat, there are some solutions to minimize its effects. Ecosystems with lots of producers act as “carbon sinks,” sucking up all of the carbon dioxide in the area, helping to minimize the effects of climate change. By planting more plants, trees, or other producers, more carbon dioxide will be absorbed from the atmosphere which is one solution to address climate change. Scientists have researched multiple ways to increase carbon uptake and have concluded that some of the best ways to do this are reforesting ecosystems with cut-down trees and managing natural forests better. Preserving areas with lots of producers and adding more into other ecosystems will allow for more carbon to be absorbed in the atmosphere and will in turn minimize the effects of climate change.

            Climate change is caused by a variety of factors, almost all of which are humans’ fault. The main causes are: generating power, manufacturing goods, deforestation, producing food, powering buildings, and over consuming (Nations, n.d.).  Climate change may actually be the biggest threat posed to human civilization in the world and it has shown no signs of slowing down. Continuous careless human behavior will not end well. Thankfully, big thinkers and powerful people today such as Elon Musk and an increasing number of politicians are recognizing this issue and taking action.

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