Climate Researcher and Associate Professor in Chemistry Dr. Ravikumar Vidule unfolds the disastrous effects of Climate change and asserts the urgent necessity of mending environmental imbalance in the backdrop of World Environmental day.

Though cli-fi. Writings put the grim reality of the world sans Environmental balance; many of us are taking it not very serious assuming it as just a fiction. The theme, ” Change Climate or Climate Will Change Us: One Planet, Last Chance,” underscores the urgency of taking decisive action against climate change. We need to look at the significance of international climate treaties, the impact of environmental degradation, and the steps we must take to secure a sustainable future.

Understanding Climate Change

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. These activities increase concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHGs) like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) in the atmosphere, leading to global warming and climate instability.

Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement

The Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement highlight the necessity of universal participation. Developed nations are required to lead in emissions reductions and provide financial and technological support to developing countries. Developing and underdeveloped nations are encouraged to enhance their climate actions, with a focus on sustainable development and poverty eradication. Compliance with these treaties is crucial for global efforts to prevent catastrophic climate change.

The Poisonous Fruits of Modernization

Air Pollution

Air pollution is one of the most visible and harmful consequences of industrialization and modernization. Emissions from factories, power plants, thermal plants and vehicles release a cocktail of pollutants into the atmosphere, including particulate matter, sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These pollutants contribute to the formation of smog, acid rain, and cause respiratory illness. Furthermore, the release of greenhouse gases like CO₂ and CH₄ exacerbates global warming, leading to more severe weather events and altering climate patterns worldwide.

Soil Pollution

Soil pollution, although less visible, is equally detrimental. The excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture, combined with the improper disposal of industrial waste, degrades soil quality. This not only reduces agricultural productivity but also diminishes the soil’s ability to act as a carbon sink. Healthy soil is essential for growing food, maintaining water quality, and supporting biodiversity. Efforts to reduce soil pollution must include sustainable farming practices, the use of organic fertilizers, and the restoration of contaminated lands.

Water Pollution

Water bodies are increasingly polluted by industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and plastic waste. Contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and microplastics disrupt aquatic ecosystems, harm wildlife, and pose significant health risks to humans. Clean water is a fundamental human right, and protecting our water sources is critical for sustaining life on Earth. Strategies to combat water pollution include stricter regulations on industrial discharge, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and enhancing waste management systems to prevent plastic pollution.

Plastic Pollution — Image Credit: Adobe Stock

The Psychological and Physical Toll of Climate Change

Climate change affects not only the environment but also human health and their well-being. Rising temperatures contribute to heat-related illnesses and worsen chronic conditions such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts, displace communities, destroy homes, and disrupt food and water supplies. These impacts have profound psychological effects, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and mental health issues..

The Role of Forests and Soil Conservation

Forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing CO₂ from the atmosphere. Practices like agro-forestation and reforestation are essential to enhance carbon sequestration, improve soil health, and maintain biodiversity. Increasing the carbon content of the soil and maintaining its pH and porosity are vital for sustaining microorganisms that support plant growth and ecosystem resilience.

Reducing Global Temperatures: A Shared Responsibility

To avoid the worst effects of climate change, we must limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This requires a significant reduction in GHG emissions. Scientists have set a target to reduce emissions by 18 billion tons per year by 2030 to attain Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and achieve net-zero CO₂ emissions by 2050.

The Role of Carbon Credits

Carbon credits offer a market-based approach to reducing GHG emissions. Four major voluntary offset project registries are American Carbon Registry (ACR), Climate Action Reserve (CAR), Gold Standard, and Verra (VCS) are actively working to provide carbon credits globally. In India, farmers and plantation agencies are beginning to benefit from these initiatives, receiving credits for sustainable land use practices that reduce emissions and enhance carbon sequestration.

Promoting Agro-forestry

Agro-forestry, an integration of forestry and agriculture, is a sustainable land-use system that combines trees, shrubs, and crops. This practice enhances biodiversity, improves soil health, and increases carbon sequestration. It represents a harmonious blend of traditional and modern agricultural practices, offering a holistic approach to land management.

Our Last Chance

Despite the numerous disputes, wars, and persistent competition that often define international relations, the growing threats from climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, and the devastating impacts of global warming now we are moving towards “Global Boiling” as we come across the temperature in India from 30^th May 2024 onwards the major cities reach half of the boiling temperature are Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Jammu.

As we stand at the crossroads of environmental up-gradation it is our collective duty to act. Governments, industries, and individuals must work together to reduce emissions of hazardous gases, promote sustainable practices and protect our planet. On this International Environmental Day, let us commit to meaningful action. Remember, it is not just about mitigating climate change; it is about ensuring that climate does not change us irreversibly. It is our duty to take bold actions, foster global cooperation, and ensure a sustainable and robust future for all on the earth. The way we have used and still using huge amounts of plastic now it is fear that our Due to mother Earth from hear onwards known as the planet of Plastic. The way human the entire globe is wrapped in the plastic due to our activities, now the microplastic is reached in human blood, arteries, in heart and some studies revealed that the microplastic is now present in human stool too. If we won’t limit ourselves then nature will undoubtedly punish us and our upcoming generations. We have seen during the pandemic that human bodies are also wrapped in plastic. So be careful and work to control global warming.