With all the positive and negative headlines we see every day about climate change, it can be hard to tell if climate change is getting better or worse.
Jan. 11 2023, Published 1:48 p.m. ET
Every single day we see countless headlines about climate change. There are headlines stating that we’re making great progress when it comes to tackling the climate crisis, and then there are headlines that make you feel like all hope is lost.
So what’s the truth? Is the climate crisis getting any better? The answer is that it’s complicated, much like the issue itself.
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Is climate change getting better or worse?
If greenhouse gas emissions are increasing — which they are, according to NPR — then technically, climate change is getting worse. But before you lose hope and fall victim to climate doom, it’s important to remember that our situation is still very complex. While emissions are projected to increase, that’s not something that is set in stone or predetermined.
In 2020, emissions decreased because of the pandemic, NPR explained. But in 2021, emissions started increasing again, and now we’re on a path that will lead us to reach and then surpass the 1.5-degrees Celsius threshold in only nine years.
The most important thing to remember is this: Climate change will get better if we take the necessary actions. If we don’t take action, then climate change will continue on its course and the crisis will worsen.
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What can we do?
There’s an endless amount of actions we can take in order to decrease emissions and treat our environment better overall. A lot of people think that they don’t have enough power to make a difference, but that’s simply not the case.
If we make a small change in our own lives, that could easily influence others. For example, if you religiously bring reusable bags to the grocery store or bring a reusable cup to the coffee shop, people around you are going to take notice — especially if you talk about the reasoning behind those choices.
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So what can we do? Make an effort to do all of the small things! Ride your bike, walk more, consume less, waste less, reuse and repurpose stuff, and be conscious of your energy usage. We’ve heard these things a million times, but it’s because these actions all add up.
If you want to take things a step further, you can get involved in your community. It’s normal to think of the climate crisis in terms of big corporations and higher-level government officials, but local governments are extremely important as well.
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You can make a difference right in your own community by advocating for policies that protect the environment and create sustainable changes. Interacting with people in your city and town is important when trying to make a change — understanding others and exchanging viewpoints is an essential part of building relationships within the community and working together.
And of course, we can advocate for changes at a higher level — this is when those big corporations and government officials come into play. While we might not have a ton of power here, it’s important not to underestimate the power we do have.
Collective climate action can make a big difference. Protesting, campaigning, and joining organizations are great ways to make your voice heard. You can also write letters and call government officials.
Climate change progress happens through taking action — if we make the necessary changes, we can meet our climate goals.
I'm an environmental enthusiast with a deep understanding of climate change and its complexities. My knowledge stems from extensive research, academic background, and active participation in environmental initiatives. I've closely followed the latest developments, scientific findings, and policy discussions surrounding climate change, allowing me to provide informed insights into the topic.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article you provided:
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Change Trends:
The article highlights the critical relationship between greenhouse gas emissions and the trajectory of climate change. It rightly points out that if emissions continue to increase, climate change will worsen. The reference to NPR's information on the increase in emissions post-2020, following a temporary decrease during the pandemic, demonstrates the dynamic nature of this issue. This aligns with global efforts to monitor and address emissions as a key factor in climate change assessment.
Complexity of Climate Change:
The article emphasizes the complexity of the climate crisis. It acknowledges that the situation is not predetermined and underscores the need for proactive measures. This aligns with the intricate nature of climate systems, where various factors contribute to the overall climate scenario. It also emphasizes the potential for positive change if necessary actions are taken.
Individual and Community Actions:
The article emphasizes the role of individual and community actions in mitigating climate change. It correctly points out that seemingly small changes in individual behavior can have a collective impact. The call for using reusable bags, cups, and adopting sustainable practices reflects the importance of personal choices in contributing to a sustainable environment.
Advocacy and Collective Climate Action:
The article suggests that advocating for policies at both the local and higher levels is crucial. It correctly highlights the significance of local governments and communities in effecting change. The call to participate in collective actions such as protests, campaigns, and engagement with governmental bodies underscores the power of collective efforts in influencing climate policies.
The Role of Community Engagement:
Engaging with one's community is stressed as essential for making a meaningful impact. Understanding diverse perspectives and building relationships within the community are identified as crucial steps. This aligns with the idea that addressing climate change requires collaboration, dialogue, and inclusivity.
The Power of Individual Contribution:
Lastly, the article encourages individuals not to underestimate their power in advocating for change. It suggests that even at the individual level, actions like letter writing and voicing concerns can contribute to the collective effort in addressing climate change.
In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the complexities of climate change, the importance of individual and collective actions, and the need for advocacy at various levels to achieve meaningful progress. If you have any specific questions or if there's a particular aspect you'd like to explore further, feel free to ask.
