Our World, Our Choice

Our world has declined dangerously due to the effects of climate change. People turn to the oil economy instead of honing the agriculture that once thrived around the world. In the words of Robert Swan, “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it”. If we as a population do not strive to save our world, then sadly, no one else will.

Climate change is the long-term shift in weather patterns and temperatures. These changes may be natural but since the 1800s, human activities have been the main reason for climate change. Activities like bush burning, deforestation, etc further push the change in the environment. Agriculture is hugely affected by climate change because the rain that hydrates soil becomes acidic and hinders the growth of crops. Acid rain is a phenomenon caused by greenhouse gasses being released into the atmosphere, polluting the air and creating clouds that produce acid rain. Another serious issue is global warming. It can affect livestock and farmers due to extreme temperatures and weather. Global warming also causes increased drought which causes crops to die out. Crops dying out could cause inefficient food for both humans and animals. Multiple animals such as the black softshell turtle have gone extinct due to habitat loss and overexploitation while others, such as the polar bear are on the brink of extinction due to the effects of climate change and human hunting as a recreational activity. Many other animals are struggling to survive due to these effects and will soon die out if their issue is not addressed.

This is wherehe statement “our world, our choice” comes into play as it is our choice to make a change if we want to keep our world a safe place. Rules should be enforced against littering and burning of fossil fuels as they pollute the soil and air. The use of public transportation should become an enforced policy instead of individual cars due to the greenhouse gasses that are released from the conversion of fuel into energy, Plastic bags and bottles should be replaced with biodegradable materials. As for deforestation, paper can be made out of recycled materials such as old clothes or plastic to reduce the risk of endangering animals.

In conclusion, climate change is a serious issue that should be addressed. Intensive efforts to reverse climate change is a call to be answered urgently.