Climate Change: A Generation in Crisis
Climate change and the general topic of global warming is one that is often politically charged. The current political climate of the United States has allowed for the discussion surrounding this topic to be further pushed as a political issue. As fear and tension rise between political parties, it is important to treat this issue for what it is, a scientific issue, not a bipartisan one. 2023 marked the hottest year on record, according to many reputable sources such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NASA, and UN News.
Responses to this news have been varied, but one general consensus remains: what is facing this generation is unlike anything that previous generations have ever seen. The unprecedented effects of climate change on species decline and habitat loss around the world has caused increasing feelings of hopelessness and despair in the general population. The American Psychological Association has reported that the issue of climate change has led to an increased number of long term mental health crises. February of 2024 marked the ninth consecutive hottest month ever recorded for that month.
The most challenging response to climate change is that there is nothing that can be done about it. It is easy to feel hopeless when faced with the barrage of overwhelming news, but there are resources that are available to help fight climate change. Change happens in steps, even small ones. A method to fight climate change is to do diligent research on politicians and organizations that are addressing these issues. There are ways of reducing personal carbon footprint that are also impactful.
