Discussing Climate Change: Why Should We Have These Conversations?

Seventeen countries in Africa and their 38 million citizens are currently suffering from famine due to the 2-year drought that has plagued the land. Greece and Niger are underwater due to the record-breaking rainfalls and subsequent flooding. Texas, Puerto Rico, and Cuba are still recovering from the damage caused by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria: all Category 4 and 5 strength hurricanes. Two-thirds of the Great Barrier Reef is damaged due to coral bleaching. Sea ice levels in both the Arctic and Antarctic are at record lows. This is climate change.

Climate change is the problem our world is presently facing. Earth’s atmosphere is warming and is currently causing disastrous environmental consequences which will only worsen in the future. Climate change is real and my generation, Gen Z, understands the world we will inherit if we fail to take action now. I do not want to live in a world where Category 5 hurricanes are considered the new normal. Rather, I want to live in a world where I can live and prosper, and explore the natural beauties the world has to offer. It is only just, that in the future, my generation and I are given the opportunity to do so. As a global community, we must rise together to ensure not only our future but the future of the Earth and succeeding generations.

The first step we must take in tackling this crisis is to have discussions about climate change. It is an immediate issue too important not to talk about in everyday conversations. We have a moral duty to speak out and fight this problem. We owe this to the people of Houston as well as those of Africa and Latin America. By openly discussing the climate crisis, we can catapult this issue into the global spotlight. It is imperative that we have these conversations to raise awareness of this issue as well as develop innovative solutions. Essentially, for the sake of the future, we must talk to inspire change in the global community and our governments.

The ball is already rolling as we have already started talking about climate change. In fact, we have already influenced significant change, as demonstrated by the Paris Agreement. However, a problem of this caliber requires the help and support of the entire globe. This starts with you. You can make a difference. Become an advocate for the environment and spread awareness of climate change. Talk about it. The more people are aware and involved in the battle against climate change, the easier it will be to fight it. A future without climate change is possible with your initiative and action.