Critical Thinking - Sergine Inema
Critical Thinking - Sergine Inema
Critical Thinking - Sergine Inema
Climate change refers to the long-term alteration of temperature and weather patterns on Earth,
primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. It poses a
significant threat to the planet's ecosystems, biodiversity, and human well-being, leading to
rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and disruption of natural
systems.
When the problem of climate change is examined, a number of important elements and variables
emerge including the following:
a. Emissions of greenhouse gases: Burning fossil fuels puts gases into the atmosphere that trap
heat and cause global warming, such as carbon dioxide. This is mainly caused by human activity,
which increase the greenhouse concentrations. The UN claims that fossil fuels, such as coal, oil,
and gas, are by far the main cause of climate change, contributing more than 75% of greenhouse
gas emissions worldwide and almost 90% of carbon dioxide emissions overall.
b. Deforestation: Cutting down on forests lessens the ability of trees to absorb carbon dioxide,
which increases greenhouse gas emissions. The union of concerned scientists agree that less than
10% of pollution causing global warming comes from deforestation in tropical regions. This
percentage has decreased in recent decades, in part because deforestation has been partially
stopped, but also because using fossil fuels has resulted in a rise in greenhouse gases, which is
the main driver of climate change.
c. Industrial practices: The need for greener and more sustainable alternatives is highlighted by
the fact that industries that depend on fossil fuel-based energy sources contribute considerably to
emissions.
Focusing on common objectives, the body of scientific evidence, and sustainable development
principles is necessary to reconcile divergent viewpoints on climate change. Collaboratively
addressing climate change while taking social and economic factors into account may be
achieved via involving stakeholders and promoting communication. We can foster a shared
commitment to preserving our world for future generations by accepting varied viewpoints and
empowering people via education.
Recommendations
b. Reducing deforestation: Encourage sustainable land use practices and reforestation initiatives
while putting rules and incentives in place to safeguard and restore forests, including the
preservation of carbon-rich ecosystems like peatlands and mangroves.
c. Improving energy efficiency: By means of laws, incentives, and public awareness campaigns,
promote the creation and use of energy-efficient technology and practices across all industries,
from building construction to transportation.
f. Education and public awareness: Make significant investments in educational initiatives and
campaigns to increase public knowledge of climate change, its effects, and the significance of
both individual and group efforts to mitigate it.
These recommendations are supported by scientific evidence, international agreements like the
Paris Agreement, and the understanding that addressing climate change is essential for
preserving our planet and the well-being of current and future generations. The proposed
approach acknowledges the issue's complexity and aims to create a feasible and inclusive path
toward mitigating climate change and building a sustainable future.
References
. Tropical deforestation and global warming. (2021, November 10). Union of Concerned
Scientists. https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/tropical-deforestation-and-global-warming
. The climate dictionary: An everyday guide to climate change. (2023, February 2). UNDP
Climate Promise. https://climatepromise.undp.org/news-and-stories/climate-dictionary-
everyday-guide-climate-change