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When we talk about climate change, it simply means the global phenomenon of climate transformation which are changes in the usual climate of the planet regarding temperature, and the wind among others, that are especially caused by human activities or inactivity.
Though global warming is a term often used interchangeably with climate change, it is one of the key measures of climate change. It refers to the rise in average global temperatures, which is linked to significant impacts on humans, wildlife, and the ecosystems around the world.
Many scientists are studying this phenomenon and they are trying to understand how human activities or inactivity are responsible. Climate change is already challenging and can further challenge our society with the increase in temperature in some states and countries; especially in Cross River State and by extension Nigeria in general.
The reason for this move has to do with natural resources such as drinking water, vegetation that are getting more limited, and many crops and livestock that are unlikely to survive which are affecting locals and also, the global economy of the several industries that only rely on raw material in a specific location because of the coldness or dryness of the temperature.
This has turned out that the wealthiest countries of the world will be the ones experiencing fewer changes in their local climate compared to the poorest regions of the global average surface temperature that reaches between 1.5 and 2 degrees celsius.
It is therefore expedient to fight climate change. So, for us to fight climate change, we must first reduce our greenhouse gas emissions that are naturally on a human timescale such as sunlight, wind, rain, and waves. Humans should avoid creating energy by burning fossil fuels.
We must also make everything more efficient because even if the energy comes from a renewable source, it still won’t be carbon neutral and will still contribute to the ozone depletion.
Health Risks Of Climate Change
Cross River State has experienced changes in rainfall, resulting in more floods in recent years, droughts, or intense rain as well as more frequent and severe heat waves. These are becoming more acidic and the sea levels also are rising in temperature. It also affects power outages in extreme weather which could cripple the health and transportation systems that are dependent on it.
Another risk of the climate challenge is the effect it has on crops which could lead to undernutrition, hunger, and higher food prices. Hotter days, more rain and higher humidity will produce more ticks which can spread infectious diseases like Lyme disease; more heat and rain increase mold, fungi, and indoor air pollutants.
Way Forward
These diseases, illnesses, and risks can be averted or curbed if humans reduce activities that threaten the ecosystem – deforestation, bush burning, and other forms of environmental degradation. Improving farming and encouraging vegetation is one of the best ways for individuals to help in stopping climate change.
Reducing fossil fuels activities such as coal, oil, and gas exploration will go a long way to ameliorating climate change. Switching to electric vehicles and minimizing plane travel will not only help to stop climate change; it will help to reduce air pollution.
Practicing habits of afforestation and reducing the hunt for wildlife is another measure to abate climate change in Cross River. Controlling indiscriminate building of structures will not only fight climate change but will protect vegetation and preserve human lives.
As the rainy season beckons, Cross Riverians should refuse the temptation of dumping refuse in the drainages to prevent excessive flooding. Should these habits be imbibed, the environment and human lives will be preserved more.
Patience Bassey is an IT student from the University of Calabar with CrossRiverWatch.
NB: Opinions expressed in this article are strictly attributable to the author, Patience Bassey, and do not represent the opinion of CrossRiverWatch or any other organization the author works for/with.
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