For the first few weeks of November, all eyes were on Glasgow as the much-anticipated COP26 took place. While climate specialists differed on their view for a favourable outcome, one thing was obvious. COP26 was the deciding moment in our joint actions to bring down global greenhouse gas emissions. And to acclimate to the impacts of climate change.
The COP26 was the 26th Conference of the U.N. Convention on Climate Change.
“Blah, blah, blah!”
It was one of the most well-known quotes from COP26 by climate activist Greta Thunberg. She criticised the absence of commitment from world leaders before the summit. There was undoubtedly a ton of hot air (pun intended) produced by each side in the early phases. You may have wondered if it would ever result in proper measures transpiring. Well, via scientific debate, all the triumphs (and there were a bunch) eventually came about.
So, what does all this have to do with your studies?
You might sometimes ponder about how applicable to day-to-day life your schoolwork is. Being a part of the generation preparing to look after the Earth, you may be curious regarding how today’s leaders plan to take care of our home.
Should we care about climate change?
If you are sitting in your room, working out or just relaxing, would you notice if the temperature were to increase by 1°C? Most likely not. Your body would take action without your conscious input.
This tiny temperature change may not be noticeable to one person. But it would have a dramatic effect on the planet.
Climate change caused by humans is real. With famines, crop failures, a rise of sea levels, and low biodiversity to name just a few of its impacts. I would think it is worth defending from.
Human influence also plays a prominent part in climate change. We are already witnessing severe weather occurrences in the world that negatively affect peoples’ lives. The rapidly increasing human population is a gigantic element in climate change. We are also driving other species to extinction at record speed.
On top of that, there are other consequences as well. Actions like being confined in between 4 walls or international travel have made humans more readily exposed to infections, as the Covid-19 pandemic has very clearly displayed.
So instead of throwing their hands up in dismay, world leaders alike agreed to limit the damage caused by climate change. Restricting the rise in temperature to 1.5°C is integral. Although, it does require the commitment of all countries, which can not be assured currently.
Science skills, efficient diplomacy and political skills are all integral in navigating this stage in our history. You may even oppose Greta Thunberg, but one thing is sure; the solution to climate change lies in the hands of her generation. So, having the ability to make crucial decisions based on science is more necessary now than ever. Your capabilities and personality are of value – they are the basis for the sufficient action needed. Our future on Earth relies on it. So study well, your planet needs you!
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