Climate Crisis
What is the Climate Crisis?
The climate crisis refers to the significant and often detrimental changes in Earth's climate patterns.
Since the onset of the industrial revolution, human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes have led to the release greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) into the atmosphere which trap heat and contribute to global heating.
This has resulted in a significant rise in average global temperatures, with records indicating an increase of over 1°C increase of over 1°C since the 1850s.
Climate Crisis Timeline
The Industrial Revolution begins, marking a significant shift in human civilisation with increased use of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil.
Scientist Svante Arrhenius hypothesised that burning fossil fuels could lead to global warming due to increased carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
At a meeting of the American Geophysical Union, physicist Gilbert Plass presented evidence suggesting that the surge in industrial activity since the turn of the century is causing a significant increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, contributing to a gradual rise in global temperatures.
The Keeling Curve began tracking atmospheric CO2 concentrations, providing crucial data for understanding the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and their impact on climate.
The United Nations Conference on the Human Environment was the first major international conference on environmental issues. It led to the creation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and increased global awareness of environmental challenges, including pollution and resource depletion.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was established by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) to assess scientific findings related to climate change and its potential impacts.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was adopted, signaling a landmark commitment by the international community to address climate change through collective action and cooperation.
The Kyoto Protocol was adopted, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, its effectiveness is limited due to some countries not ratifying it and others not meeting their commitments.
The European Climate Change Programme (ECCP) was launched by the European Union, addressing climate change through the development of policies and strategies tailored to regional and national contexts.
The Kyoto Protocol came into force, marking the beginning of a joint commitment to stop global climate change after it was ratified by enough countries to meet its criteria.
The Paris Agreement was adopted during the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21). Its aim is to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, while striving for a more ambitious target of 1.5 degrees.
We’re still waiting for all EU member states to commit to achieving net-zero emissions.
What is the impact of the Climate Crisis?
Change in Seasonality
Climate crisis-induced shifts in seasonal patterns, including changes in flowering times, migration routes, and agricultural cycles, are already being observed and are expected to persist, reflecting ongoing environmental changes.
Climate Migrants
Climate caused disruptions to water and food supplies heighten social tensions and fuel conflicts. Forced displacement from events like sea-level rise or extreme weather creates climate migrants, amplifying social and political strains.
Coastal Flooding
Sea-level rise and extreme weather events can lead to flooding of coastal regions, resulting in damage to property, displacement of communities, and loss of critical coastal habitats.
Food Insecurity
Climate crisis disrupts agriculture through temperature shifts, precipitation changes, and extreme weather, leading to crop failures, reduced yields, and volatile food prices, worsening food insecurity, especially in vulnerable regions.
Forest Fires
The climate crisis contributes to forest stress, increasing the risk of wildfires and forest mortality. These events can result in the loss of biodiversity, habitat destruction, air pollution, and economic losses for communities dependent on forests.
Heat Stress
Rising temperatures and heatwaves endanger vulnerable groups like the elderly and children, exacerbating health issues. Heat stress increases heat-related illnesses and fatalities while also impairing labour productivity and elevating energy needs.
Damage to infrastructure
Extreme weather events and sea-level rise can lead to damage to infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and utilities. This can disrupt transportation networks, compromise public safety, and incur significant repair costs.
Localised Flooding
Changes in precipitation patterns can lead to increased frequency and intensity of localised flooding, impacting communities and infrastructure, especially in low-lying or flood-prone areas.
Loss of Biodiversity
The climate crisis alters habitats and ecosystems, leading to shifts in species distributions and biodiversity loss. This can disrupt ecosystem functioning, reduce resilience to environmental stressors, and increase the risk of species extinctions.
Loss of Marine Ecosystem
Ongoing changes in ocean conditions gradually affect marine ecosystems and fisheries, with immediate impacts like coral bleaching already evident. The full extent of these effects may take time to manifest fully.
Risk to Water Supplies
Changes in the climate alter precipitation, causing droughts in some areas and heavy rainfall in others. This constant changes strain water resources, affecting agriculture, industry, and human consumption, exacerbating global water scarcity.
Pests
Warmer temperatures and altered precipitation patterns can affect the distribution and abundance of pests and disease vectors, expanding their range into new areas. This can have implications for agriculture, forestry, and public health.
What can you do to help?
This website will provide articles and tips on what you can do to improve your carbon handprint, in the meantime here is a quick guide.
Use your voice
Contact your MP by using one of the following websites:
- Find Your MP
Tells you who your MP is.
- TheyWorkForYou
Provides information about your MP, including their contact details and voting record.
- WriteToThem
Provides contact information for your MP and councillors.
Social Media: Many MPs and councillors are active on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. You can try reaching out to them through these channels.
Surgeries: MPs and councillors often hold regular surgeries in their constituencies where constituents can meet them in person to discuss issues. You can find information about these surgeries on the MP's website or by contacting their office.
Writing Engaging Letters or Emails: There are a number of organisations that provide templates and guidelines for writing engaging letters or emails to politicians.
Remember to be clear, concise, and polite in your communication. Clearly state the issue you're concerned about and what specific actions or support you're seeking from your MP or local councillors.
Join a Social Movement or Campaign
- Extinction Rebellion (XR)
is a global movement that uses non-violent civil disobedience to demand action on the climate crisis. They have local groups and community initiatives focusing on various environmental issues. Joining XR can involve participating in protests, community actions, or volunteering with local chapters.
- Possible
is an organization dedicated to accelerating the transition to a zero-carbon society. They work on various initiatives, including campaigns to promote renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, and advocate for sustainable policies. You can get involved by volunteering, donating, or participating in their campaigns and events.
- Woodland Trust
is the UK's largest woodland conservation charity, working to protect and restore native woodlands. They organise tree planting events, conservation projects, and campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of forests for combating climate change and biodiversity. You can join as a member, volunteer for tree planting events, or support their campaigns.
- The Conservation
Volunteers (TCV)
is a charity dedicated to conserving green spaces and promoting environmental volunteering. They organise practical conservation activities, community projects, and educational programs to improve biodiversity and tackle climate change. You can volunteer with TCV to participate in conservation activities in your local area.
Eat less meat and dairy
Reducing meat and dairy consumption is indeed one of the most effective ways to reduce your environmental impact, improve your health, and save money.
- Increase Plant-Based Foods
- Replace Meat with Plant Proteins
- Reduce Beef and Lamb Consumption
- Choose Dairy Alternatives
- Check Environmental Impact
- Buy Local and Seasonal Produce
- Reduce Food Waste
- Educate Yourself
By making mindful choices about the foods you consume, you can contribute to a healthier planet while also improving your own well-being. Changing to a more plant-based diet is a positive step towards reducing your environmental footprint and promoting sustainability.
Reduce your energy use
Making small changes to your behaviour at home can indeed have a significant impact on reducing your energy consumption, cutting your carbon footprint, and saving money on energy bills. Here are some practical tips:
- Adjust Heating and Insulation
- Use Hot Water Efficiently
- Optimise Cooking Practices
- Reduce Electricity Usage
By implementing these simple changes, you can make your home more energy-efficient, reduce your environmental impact, and save money on energy bills over time. You can read more about ways to reduces you energy consumption over at my Energy Saving Tips page.
Protect Green Spaces
Green spaces play a crucial role in environmental sustainability, public health, and overall well-being. Here are some key benefits of green spaces:
- Carbon Sequestration
Green spaces such as parks, forests, and gardens absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, helping to mitigate climate change by acting as carbon sinks.
- Air Quality Improvement
Trees and vegetation in green spaces help to filter pollutants from the air, improving air quality and reducing levels of harmful pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter.
- Temperature Regulation
Green spaces provide shade and evaporative cooling, helping to reduce the urban heat island effect and lower temperatures in urban areas during hot weather, thereby improving comfort and reducing energy consumption for cooling.
- Flood Mitigation
Vegetation in green spaces helps to absorb and slow down rainwater runoff, reducing the risk of flooding and soil erosion. Green spaces act as natural sponges, absorbing excess water and replenishing groundwater supplies.
- Biodiversity Conservation
Green spaces provide habitats for a diverse range of plant and animal species, supporting biodiversity and ecological resilience. They serve as important wildlife corridors and refuges, especially in urbanised areas.
- Mental and Physical Health Benefits
Access to green spaces has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced stress levels, improved mood, increased physical activity, and enhanced overall well-being. Spending time in nature has a calming effect on the mind and body, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
It's essential to protect, maintain, and expand green spaces in both urban and rural areas. Investing in the creation and preservation of green infrastructure is not only vital for environmental sustainability but also for promoting healthier and more resilient communities.
The following organisations provide advice and resources of how you can get involved.
Responsible Banking
The top 60 banks collectively financed an alarming $5.5 trillion in fossil fuels. In the year 2022 alone, investments soared to $673 billion towards fossil fuel initiatives.You can read more about what banks invest in over at Home Green is your bank?
Contacting your bank, building society, or pension provider to inquire about where your money is being invested is an important step toward aligning your finances with your values and supporting sustainability efforts. Here are some steps you can take:
- Contact Your Financial Institution
- Inquire About Fossil Fuel Investments
- Request Ethical or Sustainable Investment Options
- Explore Ethical Banking Options
Join Sustainable Finance Campaigns that advocate for banks and pension funds to invest sustainably and responsibly. Get involved by signing petitions, participating in awareness-raising activities, and spreading the word about the importance of sustainable finance.
You can actively contribute to the transition toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious financial system. By aligning your investments and banking habits with your values, you can help drive positive change and support initiatives that promote a greener and more equitable future.
Cut waste and Consumption
Being mindful of our consumption habits and reducing our environmental footprint are crucial for promoting sustainability and minimising our impact on the planet. Here are some practical steps you can take:
- Mindful Consumption
Avoid buying more than you need and appreciate the value of your current belongings. Before making a purchase, consider whether it's necessary and if you truly need the item.
- Extend Product Lifespan Repair, reuse, upcycle, or customise your items instead of discarding them when they're no longer in perfect condition. Embrace second-hand shopping from thrift stores and charity shops, or invest in high-quality items that are built to last longer.
- Informed Purchases
Choose brands that align with your eco-friendly values and prioritise sustainability in their production processes. Look for transparency in product labeling and avoid falling for greenwashing tactics.
- Minimise Waste
- Reduce single-use items
- Provide feedback to brands
- Meal Plan
By adopting these practices, you can contribute to reducing your environmental footprint, conserving resources, and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. Every small action counts towards creating a more environmentally conscious society and protecting the planet for future generations.
talk talk talk
Conversations are powerful tools for spreading awareness and inspiring action, especially when it comes to addressing the climate crisis and promoting sustainable practices. Here are some key points to keep in mind when discussing these topics with others:
- Lead by Example
- Share Your Experience
- Normalise Sustainable Behaviour
- Encourage Conversation
- Acknowledge Emotional Responses
- Promote Positive Messaging
- Offer Support and Resources
By engaging in meaningful conversations and fostering a supportive community, we can address the climate crisis more effectively and empower individuals to take action towards a more sustainable future.
Climate change is happening, humans are causing it, and I think this is perhaps the most serious environmental issue facing us.
Bill Nye