We Must Combine Forces to Combat Climate Change

A new report released by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a United Nations panel, confirmed there was irrefutable scientific evidence that humanity had contributed to an increase in global temperatures over the past century, distinguishable from climate changes resulting from natural causes.

The report was described as “code red for humanity” and mandated urgent action, warning that global temperatures will continue to rise and will promulgate in an increase of sea levels by up to two metres in the coming decades.

UN Secretary General António Guterres said: “If we combine forces now, we can avert climate catastrophe. But, as today’s report makes clear, there is no time for delay and no room for excuses.”

The report confirms what scientists have been telling us for a long time, but many people, including in governments, have otherwise refused to heed to: Manmade climate change is real and its impact is real. It is a direct product of the industrialized world we live in which has sent the demand for energy, and subsequently our carbon footprint, surging.

Of course, it is easier to state what is happening than it is to propose serious solutions, a path which may require changes, sacrifices and adjustments to the way we live and operate our societies. This is the hard part. It must be done by working together.

There are two things all countries want. To develop their economies and become prosperous, but of course to preserve their environment and reduce emissions. However, the two things often contradict each other.

Access to cheap and affordable energy in ever growing quantities, to some extent, is a necessity for a country to achieve development. In this case, technologies and funds become vital when people strive to shift from fossil fuels to cleaner energies.

Countries are at different stages when it comes to development. It is easier for developed countries to cut emissions or make the transition. However, it could be extremely difficult for developing countries to make that shift. For example, it is impossible for a country to invest billions in clean energies, such as windfarms, electric batteries, hydroelectric or nuclear power if they lack basic necessities to begin with.

In this case, the world needs to act on climate change, but it is a process which involves recognizing the national conditions of countries and doing much more than lecturing. Developed countries should offer their assistance and work on establishing funds for green and clean infrastructure in countries that can’t make these choices on their own.

When it comes to the future of our planet, there are no “geopolitical blocs,” no “divisions” and no battles for power or influence, only one humanity.

We’ve seen the expanse of the accumulating natural disasters recently which are arguably the product of climate change. From wildfires to horrific floods, they serve to demonstrate that unless action is taken, we are all at risk.

It’s time to act, but to do so maturely, seriously and with perspective. Working together and pooling resources can help the world transition into new ways of calibrating energy, but pointing fingers, blaming and scapegoating will not.