Climate change may not affect everyone the same way across the globe, but historical and scientific evidence have allowed us to predict its potentially negative impacts, some of which we have already begun to experience. That is why it is important to start acting now in our efforts to reduce climate change, and not wait until the outcome is irreversible. 

Image courtesy NC Division of Tourism.

Many people do not realize how climate change can impact us all. Rising temperatures can increase the spread and longevity of some diseases that formerly were not a threat to us. The increased heat may trap more pollutants in the air, creating poorer air quality. Wetlands, beaches and estuaries are sensitive to the rise in sea level, an effect of climate change from glacier and icecap melting. Sea level rise is particularly threatening to North Carolina coasts where coastal erosion puts our barrier islands at risk. Additionally, extreme weather can lead to increasing storm surges and flooding. This change in weather could also provide a higher risk for droughts, floods and heat waves that may present challenges to us, effecting not only our health and water supply, but also crop and livestock production. 

Climate change can affect ecosystems as well, leading to potential extinction of some animals, while others may multiply. Plants, insects and other animals may relocate or their populations may expand due to temperature changes, which could be beneficial or pose problems if the species are invasive or they overpopulate.

Whether or not these changes are in our immediate presence, it is important to begin thinking about the future. Simply by reducing our waste through increasing recycling practices, we can begin to make a difference. While we have yet to discover the best substitute for oil, or other “green” energy means, we can limit our waste production and energy consumption, and thus limit our contribution to climate change.