Tag: climatechange

Urgent Action Needed to Protect Environmental Health and Secure Our Future

Staff ReporterEnvironment 0

Protecting Environmental Health: An Urgent Imperative

Earth is uniquely suited for human life, providing everything necessary for our physical and mental well-being. However, with the human population surging over the past century, the exploitation of nature has escalated to unsustainable levels. This excessive strain has driven many natural resources and species to the brink of extinction. Sustainable development has often been neglected, resulting in a polluted environment that harms human health. Many health issues and fatalities caused by unhealthy environments could be prevented or significantly reduced through improved environmental quality. Now, more than ever, it is vital to understand and act to safeguard our environmental health.

The Importance of Environmental Health

We reside in a world with numerous options for living, though some people have more choices than others. Key criteria for the best places to live typically include affordability, job opportunities, home value, proximity to family and friends, safety, quality schools, and favorable climate conditions. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that people began recognizing the detrimental effects of air pollution on the atmosphere. This awareness led to the development of an academic discipline aimed at understanding environmental threats, primarily caused by human activities, and their consequences. The goal is to mitigate negative impacts on nature and preserve Earth for future generations.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines public health as “the art and science of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through the organized efforts of society.” Public health, therefore, encompasses protecting the health and well-being of entire populations, ranging from small local communities to the global population.

Our daily lives are influenced by the quality of the environment we live in. The food we consume, the places we reside, and the communities we engage with all impact our physical and mental well-being. This broad field of study, known as Environmental Health, examines all environmental factors affecting our health.

Major Sources of Environmental Health Issues

  1. Air Pollution

Pollutants, a mix of natural and manmade elements, molecules, and particles, adversely affect human health. Breathing polluted air from factories or heavy traffic harms the lungs and heart, causing asthma and increasing the risk of heart attacks or strokes. According to WHO, 600,000 children die annually from respiratory infections caused by air pollution, with 9 out of 10 people breathing polluted air, resulting in nearly 9 million deaths each year.

  1. Water Contamination

Access to clean water is a basic human right, yet it remains a privilege for many. About 780 million people lack safe drinking water, and 2.5 billion people, nearly a third of the global population, do not have adequate sanitation services. Over 2,000 children die daily due to diseases related to poor water and sanitation.

  1. Toxic Substances and Hazardous Waste

Toxic substances in discarded materials, such as heavy metals or chemicals, harm the environment and human health. This waste, often stored in landfills or discarded improperly, contaminates the environment. From 1930 to 2000, man-made chemical production surged from one million to approximately 400 million tons annually, with no signs of slowing down. The average person absorbs around 300 man-made chemicals, and WHO reports that exposure to these substances causes over 1.6 million deaths each year.

  1. Climate Change and Natural Disasters

Climate change is the foremost human health threat of the 21st century. Rising global temperatures and altered rain patterns lead to extreme weather events such as cyclones, hurricanes, droughts, and wildfires, which devastate communities and infrastructure, often resulting in loss of life. The 2010 Haiti earthquake, lasting just 30 seconds, caused over 160,000 deaths and affected many more.

  1. Infrastructure Issues

Infrastructure is crucial for a high quality of life. Healthcare centers and hospitals should be integrated into the community, but governments at all levels must allocate more resources to overcome infrastructure problems. Improved infrastructure enhances access to healthcare. As Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated, “It is completely unacceptable that half the world still lacks coverage for the most essential health services.”

The Danger of an Unhealthy Environment

Anne Stauffer, director of Strategy and Campaigns at the European non-profit Health and Environmental Alliance (HEAL), emphasized the urgency of tackling environmental pollution and climate change, stating, “There is not that much of a difference between 2012 and 2020; in fact, the urgency to tackle environmental pollution and climate change has only increased.” She pointed out that “one root cause of the problem is that our whole way of production, consumption, and way of life is based on fossil fuels.”

A 2019 report by the European Environment Agency highlighted that heatwaves are the deadliest type of extreme weather in Europe. The report warned that, under current global warming scenarios, heatwave-related deaths could exceed 130,000 annually. Statistics indicate that 23% of all deaths (26% of deaths among children aged 0-5) are entirely preventable environmental health issues.

Strategies to Enhance Environmental Health

Afforestation

Planting more trees helps absorb carbon dioxide, build new ecosystems, and meet the demand for wood.

Reduce the Use of Plastics

Plastic waste constitutes 80% of all marine pollution. Researchers predict that by 2050, plastic could outweigh all fish in the sea.

Sustainable or Regenerative Agriculture

Regenerative agriculture and sustainable farming methods reduce emissions and improve soil health. Agriculture accounts for 80% of soil degradation in Europe. Healthy soils are essential for producing sufficient food for the growing population.

Electric Cars

Electric cars significantly reduce a vehicle’s carbon footprint by up to 70% compared to gasoline-powered cars. They also produce less noise pollution, which is beneficial in densely populated areas.

Rainwater Collection

Harvesting rainwater helps manage stormwater runoff, prevent erosion, and improve water quality. Using rainwater for irrigation replenishes groundwater supplies.

Energy Saving

Switching to energy-saving bulbs can cut household electricity use by 25-80%. Adopting energy-saving practices reduces reliance on fossil fuels, the primary energy source worldwide.

Reducing Industrial Emissions and Waste

To prevent Earth from becoming uninhabitable, fossil fuel emissions must decrease rapidly. Human activities have been the main source of greenhouse gases for the past 150 years.

Final Thoughts

Environmental health is more critical than ever. Caring for our planet is essential. While individuals may feel powerless against climate change and environmental crises, there are numerous ways to contribute and make a difference. Supporting a healthy environment is crucial for longer, better-quality lives.

U.S. Climate Envoy John Kerry Reflects on Landmark Climate Agreement as Retirement Nears

Staff ReporterDiplomacy, Environment 0

Time was ticking away, and U.S. Climate Envoy John Kerry was acutely aware of the urgency of the situation. In the midst of mid-December international climate talks, progress had stalled, with no consensus in sight on phasing out the use of oil, gas, and coal—the very fuels driving global warming.

The looming deadline of the United Nations-sponsored conference, set just after Kerry’s 80th birthday, added to the pressure. Moreover, Kerry’s long-time Chinese counterpart, Xie Zhenhua, who had collaborated with him on previous agreements, announced his retirement, signaling a potential loss of opportunity at the COP28 summit in Dubai.

Reflecting on this critical juncture, Kerry remarked during a recent interview with The Associated Press, conducted prior to his impending retirement: “It made me bear down and get to a lot more meetings, one-on-one and otherwise, and frankly dragooned a few other people into the effort to persuade and make the difference.”

In the midst of negotiations, there was a surprising shift. The energy minister of Saudi Arabia, a nation historically resistant to diplomatic efforts to limit fossil fuels due to its oil wealth, agreed to language concerning “transitioning away” from carbon-emitting energy sources.

However, Kerry remained cautious, recalling previous victories that had slipped away at the last moment. Yet, this time proved different.

Instead, the resulting agreement marked a significant milestone, what Kerry now regards as the culmination of three decades of global efforts to combat climate change, all achieved within a mere 48 hours.

“This was a major breakthrough,” Kerry affirmed, expressing readiness to step down from his climate diplomacy role after three years. His retirement plans were announced in January, with Wednesday marking his final day in office.

Reflecting on his tenure from his office at the U.S. State Department, Kerry highlighted the significance of the Dubai agreement. He underscored that unlike the 2015 Paris Agreement, which primarily required nations to implement self-written plans, the Dubai consensus mandated an urgent transition away from fossil fuels, encompassing all greenhouse gases.

Nevertheless, not everyone shares Kerry’s optimism regarding international climate efforts. Climate negotiations historian Joanna Depledge cautioned against overstating the significance of the Dubai agreement, describing it as “overblown.”

Kerry’s departure from his climate role doesn’t signify a complete disengagement from the issue. He intends to participate in future negotiations, albeit in a different capacity, with White House senior adviser John Podesta leading the U.S. delegation.

Looking ahead, Kerry emphasized the pivotal role of the private sector in implementing plans to reduce fossil fuel usage and promote renewable energy. He stressed the need for significant investment, estimated at $2 trillion to $5 trillion annually, to address climate change effectively.

Despite stepping down, Kerry’s continued involvement in climate affairs aligns with his longstanding dedication to environmental causes. Historian Douglas Brinkley noted that Kerry’s commitment to conservation dates back to the early days of his career, reflecting a deeply ingrained personal mission.

The absence of Kerry’s counterpart, Xie, raises questions about future agreements. Former United Nations climate chief Christiana Figueres highlighted the exceptional trust and rapport between Kerry and Xie, crucial for fostering international cooperation.

Recalling past challenges, Kerry emphasized the resilience required to navigate the complexities of climate negotiations. His decades-long career, marked by both successes and setbacks, has equipped him with the fortitude to persevere.

Looking beyond politics and diplomacy, Kerry emphasized his broader contributions, including his work as a prosecutor and involvement in various social causes. While retirement beckons, Kerry remains committed to constructive engagement, believing that purposeful action is essential for personal fulfillment.

Kerry’s dedication to climate action endures, underscoring his belief that meaningful engagement is fundamental to a fulfilling life.

 

New Study Reveals Surprising Cooling Trend in Himalayan Glaciers Amidst Global Warming

Staff ReporterScience, Environment 0

Research recently published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Geoscience reveals a surprising trend amidst the escalating global temperatures due to climate change: glaciers surrounding the world’s tallest mountains are experiencing a slight cooling during the warm season. The study, conducted at the Pyramid International Observatory, situated about 3.1 miles above sea level on the southern face of Mount Everest in the Khumbu Valley, presents intriguing insights into high-elevation climate dynamics.

For nearly four decades, the observatory has diligently collected data on various meteorological parameters, including air temperature, precipitation, humidity, and wind speed. The analysis of this extensive dataset uncovered a peculiar pattern: a decline in maximum daytime temperatures during the warmer months from May to October, amounting to approximately 0.040°C per year over the past 15 years.New Study Reveals Surprising Cooling Trend in Himalayan Glaciers Amidst Global Warming

Upon scrutinizing the data further, scientists corroborated this cooling trend with observations from neighboring weather stations across the southernmost regions of the Tibetan plateau. Surprisingly, the phenomenon wasn’t confined to Mount Everest; it spanned across the entire Himalayan range. This revelation contradicts prior assumptions, as a recent report indicated accelerated melting of Himalayan glaciers between 2010 and 2019, implying an overall warming trend in line with global climate trends.

Experts attribute this unexpected cooling to katabatic winds, a well-understood meteorological phenomenon. As sunlight warms the glaciers during the day, the air near the surface heats up and ascends, creating a vacuum that draws cold air downwards from the surrounding peaks. This process generates local katabatic winds, which peak in the afternoon, often exceeding speeds of 100 mph. With rising global temperatures amplifying this effect, the intensified katabatic winds contribute to the observed cooling trend by facilitating the descent of colder air.

New Study Reveals Surprising Cooling Trend in Himalayan Glaciers Amidst Global Warming

Interestingly, researchers speculate that these chilly winds might have mitigated glacier melt to some extent, counteracting potentially more severe outcomes. However, the study highlights a caveat: while daytime temperatures exhibit a cooling trend, nighttime temperatures during colder months (November to April) are on the rise. This nuanced interplay results in a deceptive impression of temperature trends, ultimately underscoring the inevitability of glacier melt amidst climate change.

The intricate relationship between glaciers and local climate dynamics underscores the critical role of ice in modulating temperature variations. Glacier ice acts as a thermal buffer, absorbing heat during the day and releasing it at night, thereby tempering temperature extremes in the vicinity. Consequently, temperature readings farther away from the glacier provide a more accurate reflection of daily temperature fluctuations, which significantly influence glacial melting processes.

Franco Salerno, the lead author of the study and an environmental scientist at the National Research Council, Institute of Polar Sciences, Milan, expresses relief at finally unraveling this complex phenomenon after nearly a decade of observation. He anticipates that the findings will pave the way for further research into local weather dynamics, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms shaping mountain climates.New Study Reveals Surprising Cooling Trend in Himalayan Glaciers Amidst Global Warming

Beyond its scientific implications, the study underscores the profound impact of glaciers on local mountain environments, particularly for climbers. The intensification of katabatic winds poses heightened risks for mountaineers, necessitating careful route assessment and navigation. Gordon Janow, director of the mountain climbing guide service Alpine Ascents, laments the increasing technical challenges and extended durations required for summit attempts, attributing these changes to the evolving mountain environment.

Moreover, the melting of glaciers, driven by these local weather phenomena, poses challenges not only in the Himalayas but also in mountains worldwide. Mount Rainier, a renowned training ground for mountaineers, exemplifies this trend, with changing terrain and increased hazards complicating ascent routes. Janow emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of contemporary mountain environments, cautioning against presumptions based on past experiences.

In essence, the research illuminates the complex interplay between climate change, local weather dynamics, and glacial responses, underscoring the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the impacts on mountain ecosystems and mountaineering activities alike.

Winning Wildlife: Polar Bear Slumber Image Clinches Photographer of the Year

Staff ReporterArt, Environment 0

A mesmerizing depiction of a youthful polar bear settling into slumber atop an iceberg, captured by British hobbyist photographer Nima Sarikhani, clinched the esteemed Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award.

Dr. Douglas Gurr, the director of the Natural History Museum, hailed Sarikhani’s composition, remarking, “Sarikhani’s breathtaking and poignant image allows us to see the beauty and fragility of our planet.” Gurr emphasized the significance of the image, highlighting its role as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness between animals and their habitats, and its portrayal of the adverse effects of climate change and habitat loss.

Sarikhani’s journey to produce this evocative image involved three days of scouring Norway’s Svalbard archipelago amidst dense fog in search of polar bears.

Enthusiasts of wildlife photography and nature enthusiasts worldwide were encouraged to cast their votes from a curated selection of 25 images. Alongside Sarikhani’s winning entry, four other exceptional finalists received “highly commended” recognition.

“The Happy Turtle” by Tzahi Finkelstein captured a serendipitous moment as the photographer, ensconced in his hide, observed shorebirds, only to chance upon a Balkan pond turtle wading in shallow waters, adorned with an unexpected visitor—a dragonfly perched upon its nose.

Daniel Dencescu’s “Starling Murmuration” unfolded after relentless hours trailing starlings across the urban and suburban landscapes of Rome, culminating in a mesmerizing spectacle as the birds coalesced into the form of a colossal avian figure on a cloudless winter day.

Mark Boyd’s “Shared Parenting” provided a touching glimpse into the familial dynamics of a pride of lions in Kenya’s Maasai Mara Mara, as two lionesses embarked on a hunting expedition, leaving their five cubs concealed amidst dense foliage overnight. Upon their return, the lionesses summoned the cubs onto the open grasslands, engaging in nurturing grooming rituals.

“Aurora Jellies” by Audun Rikardsen showcased a unique technical prowess, as Rikardsen shielded his equipment in a meticulously crafted waterproof housing to capture a single exposure of moon jellyfish enveloped by the ethereal glow of the aurora borealis in the brisk waters of a fjord outside Tromsø, in northern Norway.

These captivating images will be available for viewing both online and at London’s Natural History Museum until 30 June, inviting audiences to marvel at the beauty and complexity of the natural world captured through the lenses of talented photographers.

Pope Francis’ Unyielding Commitment to Social Justice and Global Issues

Staff ReporterReligion 0

Pope Francis is known for his outspoken stance on critical global issues, ranging from war and migration to climate change. According to Cardinal Michael Czerny, who leads a Vatican department focused on social justice, the Pope’s motive is to caution world leaders against making “suicidal” decisions. Czerny emphasized the moral obligation Pope Francis feels to speak on behalf of Catholics, acknowledging potential criticism but asserting that the Pope is driven by the commitment of the faithful.

Cardinal Czerny explained, “I speak out because there are millions of Catholics and other Christians and other believers and other people of goodwill for whom or in whose voice I’m speaking. And we’re trying to say to the world’s decision-makers that their decisions are anti-human, short-sighted, suicidal” (original quote).

The Pope’s dedication to responsible journalism was underscored during a meeting with reporters at the Vatican on January 22. Pope Francis likened journalism to a vocation, akin to that of a doctor choosing to heal humanity. He expressed the journalist’s role in addressing societal wounds and the importance of their work in today’s world.

Since his election almost 11 years ago, Pope Francis has been a prominent figure, gaining attention not only for his modest lifestyle in the Vatican but also for addressing pressing global issues. His willingness to discuss topics ranging from the death penalty to Artificial Intelligence has solidified his position as a Pope with a significant voice on the international stage.

In an interview on Nove, owned by CNN’s parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery, Pope Francis addressed concerns about his health. Despite recent health challenges, he asserted his commitment to remaining in office “as long as (he has) the ability to serve.”

Pope Francis’ impactful communication extends to the core of his papacy, notably his consistent support for migrants. His first visit outside of Rome was to the Italian island of Lampedusa, where he decried “global indifference” to refugees. Cardinal Czerny, working closely with the Pope, emphasized their efforts to galvanize Catholics to welcome and support migrants in their communities.

Cardinal Czerny, echoing Pope Francis’ perspective, emphasized that migration is about individuals, not just numbers. He shared his personal connection to the issue, recounting his family’s migration from Czechoslovakia to Canada when he was four years old. Highlighting the importance of sponsorship, he noted, “I wouldn’t be here talking to you if a family in Canada had not sponsored us.”

The migrant crisis is a crucial test of humanity, according to Pope Francis, and he views the developed world as largely failing in this regard. Cardinal Czerny urged the Church in the United States to address the issue, evaluate the validity of anti-immigration rhetoric, and guide their community in making informed decisions.

Another significant concern for Pope Francis and Cardinal Czerny is the rapid evolution of Artificial Intelligence. Pope Francis has called for a treaty to regulate its use, emphasizing the need for global collaboration to prevent it from becoming a new risk for human life.

Despite the Pope’s commitment to addressing pressing issues, he faces criticism, especially regarding his critiques of capitalism and his stance on climate change. Cardinal Czerny acknowledged this resistance, attributing it to the Pope challenging the interests of both financial and political elites. He drew a parallel to Jesus, noting that criticism is inevitable when the core message goes against prevailing interests.

The Pope’s recent move to authorize the blessings of same-sex couples intensified internal opposition, particularly in Africa. Despite potential criticisms, Cardinal Czerny highlighted Pope Francis’ priority to include, console, bless, and reconcile those who are suffering.

Pope Francis, despite his age and recent health challenges, remains resolute in his commitment to addressing global issues and advocating for social justice. His dedication to speaking on behalf of the faithful and challenging powerful interests continues to shape his papacy.

2023 Emerges as Earth’s Warmest Year on Record, Signaling Accelerated Warming

Staff ReporterEnvironment, Science 0

In a conclusive declaration, scientists affirm that Earth experienced its warmest year in 150 years, providing irrefutable evidence of the escalating global temperature crisis. The relentless surge in temperatures began gaining momentum midway through the year, shattering records month after month.

Quoting the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, last year’s global temperatures averaged 1.48 degrees Celsius (2.66 Fahrenheit) higher than the second half of the 19th century, surpassing the previous record-holder, 2016. NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) concurred, with NASA reporting a 1.37-degree Celsius rise from preindustrial levels and NOAA indicating a 1.34-degree Celsius increase over the preindustrial average.

Despite variations in methodology, the consensus is unanimous: 2023 stands out as the hottest year on record by a considerable margin. Russell Vose, Chief of Climate Monitoring and Assessment at NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, remarked, “This is a big jump,” underscoring the gravity of the situation during the announcement of the agency’s findings.

The link between unrestrained greenhouse gas emissions and the surge in global temperatures comes as no surprise to climate scientists. The burning question now is whether 2023 signifies the onset of a trend where heat records are not just broken but obliterated, suggesting an acceleration in the planet’s warming.

Carlo Buontempo, Director of the European Union climate monitor, added a historical perspective, noting that when combining satellite readings with geological evidence, 2023 ranks among the warmest years in at least 100,000 years. “There were simply no cities, no books, agriculture, or domesticated animals on this planet the last time the temperature was so high,” he emphasized.

Each tenth of a degree in global warming amplifies thermodynamic fuel, intensifying heatwaves, storms, and contributing to rising seas, along with hastening the melting of glaciers and ice sheets. The repercussions were vividly apparent in 2023, with scorching temperatures affecting Iran, China, Greece, Spain, Texas, and the American South. Canada bore witness to its most devastating wildfire season on record, consuming over 45 million acres. Additionally, less sea ice formed around the coasts of Antarctica, both in summer and winter, than ever before.

NOAA’s Chief Scientist, Sarah Kapnick, stressed the need for preparedness in the face of climate change impacts, urging communities, businesses, and individuals to utilize the released data to build resilience for the future.

Under the 2015 Paris Agreement, nations pledged to restrict long-term global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, with an aspirational goal of 1.5 degrees. However, current greenhouse gas emission rates are on track to render the 1.5-degree target unattainable in the near future.

2023 Emerges as Earth's Warmest Year on Record Signaling Accelerated Warming

While carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases remain the primary drivers of global warming, 2023 saw additional natural and human-induced factors contributing to the temperature surge. The underwater volcano eruption near Tonga in 2022 released substantial water vapor into the atmosphere, trapping more heat. Limits on sulfur pollution from ships also reduced aerosol levels, tiny particles that reflect solar radiation and aid in cooling the planet.

Another significant factor was El Niño, a cyclical shift in tropical Pacific weather patterns, often associated with global heat records. However, the unusual timing of last year’s El Niño, starting midyear, suggests it was not the primary driver of the abnormal warmth, leaving scientists wary of potentially higher temperatures in 2024.

Climate scientists caution against drawing sweeping conclusions from a single exceptional year like 2023. Nonetheless, other indicators point to an accelerated pace of global warming. Approximately 90 percent of the energy trapped by greenhouse gases accumulates in the oceans, and recent data indicates a significant acceleration in the oceans’ heat uptake since the 1990s.

Sarah Purkey, an oceanographer at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, highlighted the non-linear nature of this acceleration, suggesting a rapid increase. In France, a group of researchers found that Earth’s overall heating across oceans, land, air, and ice had been accelerating since 1960, aligning with the trends of increased carbon emissions and reduced aerosols in recent decades.

However, scientists acknowledge the need for continued research to comprehend potential additional factors at play, emphasizing that “something unusual is happening that we don’t understand,” according to Karina von Schuckmann, an oceanographer at Mercator Ocean International in Toulouse, France.

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/09/climate/2023-warmest-year-record.html?smid=nytcore-android-share

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