Soaring temperatures world-wide – what can we do to lessen climate change?

Climate Change

As we look at the soaring temperatures across Europe in the last few weeks it is becoming glaringly obvious that climate change is our reality. The current warming trend is proven to be caused by human activity (anthropogenic in nature) according to the IPCC (among others). And it is caused by carbon emissions. I am sorry, I don’t want to be preachy, but unfortunately this is scientifically proven, and we must face it even if it is uncomfortable. As I mentioned previously global mean temperature rose by 0.8°C and land by 1°C in the last century threatening to destroy fragile eco-systems. Green house gases (GHG) including carbon dioxide have a heat-trapping nature and the increase of these gases in the atmosphere of the planet is the cause of the soaring temperatures. GHG emissions have been rising since 1970 according to the IPCC and recent years have seen a larger increase than ever before. About 78% of this increase was contributed by CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion and industrial production. In the last handful of decades the annual anthropogenic GHG emissions have increased significantly, directly contributed from energy supply (47%), industry (30%), transport (11%) and buildings (3%) sectors. Without significant efforts to reduce GHG emissions this growth is expected to continue, driven by population growth and economic activity resulting in further warming and long-lasting, irreversible changes.

I know I said I won’t be preachy and I’ll do my best so here it goes. The solution or part of the solution is for society to transition towards an energy efficient version of consumerism. Focusing on reducing GHG emissions however is only a part of what needs to be done: in order to ensure long-term changes and a successful transition all of society has to become involved. According to the EPA, research, innovation and behavioural change, especially socio-economic resilience-building and domestic action, are key in the fight against climate change. Societal engagement also enables those in charge to rely on local knowledge, to build on existing social capital, to utilise local assets and come up with spatially appropriate solutions. This however necessitates wide-scale awareness raising and, more importantly, capacity building.

During the transition towards a climate-friendly economy we will have to shift towards renewable heating methods and sustainable transport, moving away from fossil fuel usage. Urbanisation also places major strain on the environment but the process of adapting clean technologies would contribute to create green employment opportunities in rural areas, preventing out-migration. Unfortunately while there is plenty of encouragement to live more sustainable lifestyles the uptake of sustainable practices among the general public remains low. However, there are a few things we can try to do ourselves:

  • Use the car less or drive a more efficient one: cycle, walk, take public transport, look at work close to home, service the car regularly, make sure that tyres are properly inflated, adapt eco-driving practices, only carry necessary weight in the car
  • Fly less
  • Be more energy efficient: buy energy saving appliances, bulbs, wash clothes in cold water, hang dry laundry, unplug electronics when not in use, insulate the home, get an energy audit for the home/work/community building
  • Use less water: shorter showers, turn off tap while brushing teeth, installing taps that aerate and therefore use less water
  • Consume less & waste less: try to focus on essentials, get out to nature, spend time with loved ones, drink less from plastic bottles, bring your own reusable coffee mug
  • Recycle
  • When possible choose renewable/sustainable sources of energy
  • Have a climate-friendly diet: less meat, more fruit and veg, purchase organic and local, purchase product with less packaging, don’t waste food
  • Vote: all levels of government can have a significant input on climate action. Ask questions of your representatives and choose those who are willing to help the economy shift towards a more sustainable state.

 

A few useful links:

Published by allabouttheenvironment

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