Climate Change Is Here

I think this is a topic we have all talked about at least once in our life. Climate change isn’t something that could potentially happen in the future… as a matter of fact we are already experiencing it. As college students, we’re not just the generation that will deal with the threats that could come with it, we’re the ones who have the power to do something about it. 

To start off, the average temperature on Earth has risen by about 1.2°C since the late 1800s. That might not sound like a lot, but it has actually caused serious issues like melting glaciers, rising sea levels, extreme weather, and massive shifts in ecosystems.  

Did you know that the burning of fossil fuels are the main driver of global warming? Carbon dioxide, methane, and other greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere that we walk in every day. This leads to everything from causing hurricanes to be stronger as well causing wildfires and sudden heatwaves. 

What’s happening right now? 

• 2023 was the hottest year ever recorded, with deadly heatwaves across Europe, Asia, and the United States. 

• Eight inches of sea level have risen in the last century, causing coastal communities to experience issues.  

• Ocean acidification is harming marine life and coral reefs. 

• Disasters that are related to climate harm are costing countries billions each year. 

 

What can we do to help ? 

Switching to renewable energy, improving the way that people get around, reducing the amount of waste that we put out, and standing with policy change can still keep global warming managed.  

 This isn’t something to fear about, it’s about action. As students, our voices are more important than we think. Whether you’re majoring in environmental science or just trying to do your part, like recycling more, you’re helping make a difference.  

 Because climate change isn’t something that is far away. We are in it already.