Take action on the International Day of Climate Action
The fate of future generations depends on us.
The International Day of Climate Action, celebrated on 24 October, aims to alert the global community to the devastating effects of climate change on our planet.
This phenomenon is caused by global variations in Earth’s climate and temperature, occurring over the long term and having both natural and human causes.
However, in the last century human activity has accelerated this process at an alarming rate due to the emission of greenhouse gases produced by the use of fossil fuels, the transformation of land use, energy consumption and increasing industrial activity.
These gases contribute to global warming, which in turn causes climate change.
But what does this mean? How can we know that climate change is occurring (and accelerating)?
The effects are clear and measurable, and many can be seen on our island:
- Rising average global temperatures.
- Rising sea levels due to melting ice caps and glaciers.
- Melting of ice in the Arctic, affecting biodiversity and ecosystems.
- Increase in extreme weather events such as droughts, wildfires, water shortages and floods.
The report published by the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), entitled “Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis”, stressed that global warming is rapidly escalating, and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are urgently needed.
But is there anything you personally can do to reduce these emissions?
Of course there is. Every little action counts, and here are some of the things you could do:
- Reduce energy consumption at home and at work.
- Opt for more sustainable forms of transport, such as walking, cycling or public transport.
- Make use of renewable energy and energy-efficient devices in your home.
- Reduce waste and choose sustainable and reusable products.
- Participate in official reforestation and biodiversity conservation programmes.
At Tenerife ON, we are committed to spreading the word about the importance of taking action against climate change and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle, also by setting an example.
Together we can make a difference and fight climate change to protect our planet.
