5
Comments
Climate Change Denial and its implications |
---|
by Divyansha Aggrwal | 03-09-2023 09:04
|
In recent years, the issue of climate change has taken center stage in global discussions. Despite an extensive body of evidence and research confirming its existence, an alarming number of individuals still appear apathetic to the impending threats it poses. From devastating hurricanes to the alarming specter of food insecurity, climate change has evolved from a distant threat to a harsh reality that deeply disrupts humanity. One of the prevailing misconceptions surrounding climate change is the belief that it is a challenge relegated to the distant future, something that can be deferred or handed off to future generations. When people engage in conversations about climate change, the prevalent narrative often revolves around its implications for the future. Climate change is not a looming threat; it has already begun to pack numerous adverse impacts on our global society. Regrettably, its consequences are far from distributed equitably. Shockingly, the 3.8 billion wealthiest individuals on Earth are responsible for over 86% of climate change, while the 3.7 billion poorest contribute only 14%. This glaring inequality means that those who bear the least responsibility for climate change are disproportionately suffering from its catastrophic consequences. Consider the plight of Bangladesh, where almost three-quarters of the country is submerged due to rising sea levels, or the distressing situation in Nigeria, where acute food insecurity is exacerbated by erratic weather patterns. Furthermore, India has witnessed the tragic loss of thousands of lives to relentless heatwaves. Climate change denial not only exacerbates these challenges but also provides an excuse for developed countries to avoid reducing their greenhouse gas emissions or providing support to developing nations in their battle against climate change. This turns climate change denial into a matter of global significance with moral and political implications. Former President Barack Obama eloquently conveyed at the U.N. Climate Change Summit, "We are the first generation to feel the impact of climate change and the last generation that can do something about it." The tipping point is imminent, and time is of the essence. We must take immediate action at every level and explore every possible avenue to address this crisis in a practical and sustainable manner. Now, more than ever, nations must lead the charge in mitigating climate change; furthermore, developed countries must strive to hold their promises true and support developing nations conduct climate action.
It is imperative to acknowledge that climate change is not an abstract concept but an undeniable reality. It is our responsibility to act decisively and safeguard the well-being of our planet for current and future generations. Reference list: Hossain, B., Sohel, Md.S. and Ryakitimbo, C.M. (2020). Climate change induced extreme flood disaster in Bangladesh: Implications on people¡¯s livelihoods in the Char Village and their coping mechanisms. Progress in Disaster Science, [online] 6, p.100079. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pdisas.2020.100079. Oderinde, F.O., Akano, O.I., Adesina, F.A. and Omotayo, A.O. (2022). Trends in climate, socioeconomic indices and food security in Nigeria: Current realities and challenges ahead. Frontiersin, 6. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2022.940858. OECD (2002). Poverty and Climate Change Reducing the Vulnerability of the Poor through Adaptation . [online] https://www.oecd.org. Available at: https://www.oecd.org/env/cc/2502872.pdf. Saran, S. (2018). Paris climate talks: Developed countries must do more than reduce emissions | Shyam Saran. [online] the Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/nov/23/paris-climate-talks-developed-countries-must-do-more-than-reduce-emissions. The Economist (2023). India¡¯s deadly heatwaves are getting even hotter. [online] The Economist. Available at: https://www.economist.com/asia/2023/04/02/global-warming-is-killing-indians-and-pakistanis. United Nations (2021). People, Countries Impacted by Climate Change Also Vulnerable to Terrorist Recruitment, Violence, Speakers Tell Security Council in Open Debate | UN Press. [online] press.un.org. Available at: https://press.un.org/en/2021/sc14728.doc.htm. United Nations (2022a). Climate Change. [online] United Nations. Available at: https://www.un.org/en/global-issues/climate-change. United Nations (2022b). Developed Countries Must Deliver on Climate Change, Finance Commitments, Delegates Stress, as Second Committee Continues Its General Debate | UN Press. [online] press.un.org. Available at: https://press.un.org/en/2022/gaef3566.doc.htm. Weart, S. (2023). The Public and Climate. [online] https://www.aip.org/. Available at: https://history.aip.org/climate/pdf/Public.pdf [Accessed 10 Sep. 2023]. |
|
5 Comments
Hello, I'm mentor SangHyeon
As you said, climate change is no longer an abstract concept we learn from the book, but a reality we face. I hope more people will recognize this and take action to solve it.
Thank you for the good article.
Posted 28-09-2023 16:25
That is a great report
Posted 19-09-2023 10:26
Divyansha, your report brilliantly underscores the critical nature of our current climate crisis. The stark contrast in responsibility and suffering is a poignant reflection of our world's inequities. It's a stark wake-up call that necessitates not just policy changes but a profound shift in our collective consciousness. Your insights resonate deeply in this pivotal moment.
Posted 11-09-2023 02:37
Hi, this is mentor Seeun.
It is a sad reality that those who contribute the most to global warming do not suffer the most as well. As you mentioned in your article, developed nations must take the lead in reducing the effects of climate change. However, we should remember that we can all contribute to saving the planet as individuals as well!
Great article, but please remeber to mention your sources in your next article.
Thank you!
Posted 06-09-2023 23:29
Interesting report! We will work hard to safeguard the environment through education, report/ article writing and team work. Hope to see more from you
Posted 03-09-2023 09:17