Global temperatures rose about 1.98°(1.1°C) from 1901 to 2020, but climate change refers to more than an increase in temperature. It also includes sea level rise, changes in weather patterns like drought and flooding, and much more. Things that we depend upon and value water, energy, transportation, wildlife, agriculture, ecosystems, and human health are experiencing the effects of a changing climate.

The current state of the environment is a cause for concern. Climate change is having a significant impact on ecosystems and communities around the world. The rise in global temperatures has led to more frequent and severe natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. These events not only cause immediate destruction but also have long-term effects on the environment and the people who depend on it.

According to NOAA monitors global climate data, they recorded  some of the changes. These are; 

Global temperatures rose about 1.8°F (1°C) from 1901 to 2020.

Sea level rise has accelerated from 1.7 mm/year throughout most of the twentieth century to 3.2 mm/year since 1993.

Glaciers are shrinking: average thickness of 30 well-studied glaciers has decreased more than 60 feet since 1980.

The area covered by sea ice in the Arctic at the end of summer has shrunk by about 40% since 1979.

The amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has risen by 25% since 1958, and by about 40% since the Industrial Revolution.

Snow is melting earlier compared to long-term averages. 

EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON

Food

Our food supply depends on climate and weather conditions. Although farmers and researchers may be able to adapt some agricultural techniques and technologies or develop new ones, some changes will be difficult to manage. Increased temperatures, drought and water stress, diseases, and weather extremes create challenges for the farmers and ranchers who put food on our tables.

Human farm workers can suffer from heat-related health issues, like exhaustion, heatstroke, and heart attacks. Rising temperatures and heat stress can also harm livestock. 

Human health

Climate change is already impacting human health. Changes in weather and climate patterns can put lives at risk. Heat is one of the most deadly weather phenomena. As ocean temperatures rise, hurricanes are getting stronger and wetter, which can cause direct and indirect deaths. Dry conditions lead to more wildfires, which bring many health risks. Higher incidences of flooding can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases, injuries, and chemical hazards. As geographic ranges of mosquitoes and ticks expand, they can carry diseases to new locations.

The most vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, people with preexisting health conditions, outdoor workers, people of color, and people with low income, are at an even higher risk because of the compounding factors from climate change. But public health groups can work with local communities to help people understand and build resilience to climate change health impacts.

The environment

Climate change will continue to have a significant impact on ecosystems and organisms, though they are not impacted equally. The Arctic is one of the ecosystems most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, as it is warming at least twice the rate of the global average and melting land ice contributes dramatically to sea level rise around the globe.

Some living things are able to respond to climate change; some plants are blooming earlier and some species may expand their geographic range. But these changes are happening too fast for many other plants and animals as increasing temperatures and changing precipitation patterns stress ecosystems. Some invasive or nuisance species, like lionfish and ticks, may thrive in even more places because of climate change. 

Changes are also occurring in the ocean. The ocean absorbs about 30% of the carbon dioxide that is released into the atmosphere from the burning of fossil fuels. As a result, the water is becoming more acidic, affecting marine life. Sea levels are rising due to thermal expansion, in addition to melting ice sheets and glaciers, putting coastal areas at greater risk of erosion and storm surge.

The compounding effects of climate change are leading to many changes in ecosystems. Coral reefs are vulnerable to many effects of climate change: warming waters can lead to coral bleaching, stronger hurricanes can destroy reefs, and sea level rise can cause corals to be smothered by sediment. Coral reef ecosystems are home to thousands of species, which rely on healthy coral reefs to survive.

Infrastructure

Physical infrastructure includes bridges, roads, ports, electrical grids, broadband internet, and other parts of our transportation and communication systems. It is often designed to be in use for years or decades, and many communities have infrastructure that was designed without future climate in mind. But even newer infrastructures can be vulnerable to climate change. 

Extreme weather events that bring heavy rains, floods, wind, snow, or temperature changes can stress existing structures and facilities. Increased temperatures require more indoor cooling, which can put stress on an energy grid. Sudden heavy rainfall can lead to flooding that shuts down highways and major business areas.

CONSERVATION EFFORTS

Conservation efforts are crucial in addressing these challenges. Protecting and restoring natural habitats is essential for preserving biodiversity and ensuring the resilience of ecosystems. Conservation also plays a key role in mitigating the impacts of climate change. Forests, for example, act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By protecting and restoring forests, we can help reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

In addition to conservation efforts, it is essential for individuals to take action to protect the environment. There are many ways that people can contribute to conservation and climate change mitigation. Simple actions such as reducing energy consumption, using public transportation, and supporting sustainable practices can make a significant difference. Individuals can also get involved in local conservation projects, such as tree planting or beach cleanups, to contribute to the protection of their environment.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the current state of the environment is a cause for concern, but there is hope. By understanding the impact of climate change on ecosystems and communities, and recognizing the importance of conservation efforts, we can work towards a more sustainable future. It is crucial for individuals, communities, and governments to take action to protect the environment and address the challenges posed by climate change. By working together, we can make a positive impact and ensure a healthier planet for future generations.

Reference:

https://www.noaa.gov/education/resource-collections/climate/climate-change-impacts