Climate change and Climate Crisis is real. You might understand that but do you know how you can help to slow it down? Let's explore our options.
Climate change is fueled by global warming. With the growth of human population, the global greenhouse gases emission has been rising proportionally. If we leave the the emissions unchecked, we will be facing the consequences very soon. But how soon? When the global average surface temperature increase by 1.5°C above pre-industrial (1850–1900) levels, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), we will be experiencing more frequent heatwaves, on the land and in the ocean. (Source: Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 °C). We will also be facing extreme weathers in a greater frequency and intensity, in more regions. By then, it will not be just a matter of economic loss, but it will be a condition that threatens our survival as a species. The end of our world is upon us, our actions NOW determine if there is a future.
Listed as Goal 13 in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), Climate Action is crucial to create a sustainable future, if only we act now. As of 2017 humans are estimated to have caused approximately 1.0°C of global warming above pre-industrial levels. This figure is currently rising at a rate 0.2°C per decade due to past and ongoing emissions. In conclusion, we have around 2 decades before we reach a point of no return.
What should we do now? With great power comes great responsibility. If you are a politician, you can do a lot at changing the local policy, helping the country to move towards a more sustainable and resilient direction. If not, you can also help by:
1) Be mindful of your energy consumption - Fossil fuels accounted fo more than 80% of the Malaysia's electricity generation in 2018. Burning them releases tons of CO2 into our atmostphere.
2) Increase your climate literacy - Be more conscious about what is happening to our earth by reading about climate science from trusted sources such as the reports by IPCC. You can start with the more reader friendly Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 °C.
3) Adoption of clean technology and environmental friendly operations - Whether you are a business owner or you are an employee, the adoption of cleaner technology will not only be more environmentally friendly, but many customers are also looking for service providers that are responsible for the nature's wellbeing.
4) Creating a sustainable community around you - Any individuals can be an influencer. You can take the lead to inspire people around you to take up sustainable lifestyles and practices, promoting zero-waste, supporting local businesses, eating less meat, carpooling or taking public transportations, start a cycling club, and start a community garden. Have more thoughts on how we can help? Share your thoughts with us in the comments! #climatescience #climatechange #deriamalaysia #deria #sciencecommunication #malaysia