CLIMATE CHANGE, A MYTH OR A THREAT.

                                              

                                                       

 We are the first generation to feel the effect of climate change and the last generation who can do something about it.

~Former US President Barack Obama

Climate change is literally, currently the most pressing issue worldwide. Some believed it to be a myth while the majority of earth’s populace consider it a threat to our existence.   

It is undeniably an issue that calls for immediate attention. According to the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, “Climate action tops the list of people’s concerns. We must listen and we must act.” Interestingly, the cause of the phenomena is us, humans; our activities have been the main driver since the 1800s. We burn fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas which produce greenhouse gas emissions like carbon dioxide and methane. These emissions act like a blanket covering the earth. It traps the heat from the sun and raises temperatures. Activities of many industries such as energy, transport, construction, agriculture among others are among the main emitters.

What exactly is Climate Change? It is the long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Earth has recorded the warmest in temperature for the last decade. As emissions continue to rise in one area of the earth, it may affect other areas of the system due to its interconnectedness. It is no doubt certain areas experience rising sea levels, intense droughts, severe fires, water scarcity, flooding, melting polar ice, storms and a decline in biodiversity. The most vulnerable to the consequences associated with climate change are people living in developed countries and areas surrounded by water bodies such as islands.  

Amidst the numerous issues plaguing developing countries, climate change is having a growing influence on Africa. Through this phenomenon, the hardest hit is the most vulnerable. This could impact heavily on health, economic, food and water security. The African economy is mostly agrarian, accounting for majority of the populace’s livelihood. The impact of climate change will be very detrimental to its people. Recently, Keta, a community in the Volta region of Ghana was hit by tidal waves which destroyed valuable properties like homes, schools and personal belongings. Most of the inhabitants are currently displaced, waiting on the government and other local risk and disaster agencies to come to their aid.  The risk of climate change can be severe and so necessitates identifying and managing climate risks lest it affects the continent’s goal in achieving Agenda 2063. Industrialized countries are required to fulfill their commitment of $100 billion a year to developing countries to adapt and move towards greener economies.

Climate action may be expensive but inaction is way more expensive. In the ongoing Conference of the Parties (COP26) summit held in Glasgow, Scotland, signatories of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) are assembled to evaluate various actions by members to limit climate change. A significant financial investment from governments, businesses and groups is essential to fighting climate change. The inability to address climate finance gaps particularly for developing countries is likely to impede progress at COP26. The failure to follow through on their commitment has been described by Guinea, the representative for about 130 developing countries as “empty” and a “broken promise”

The future generation is at risk. The voice of the present generation, especially the youth are needed to create more awareness through education, science or technology. Young people are agents of change. Former President Barack Obama has entreated the youth to champion the cause through activism. Youth representatives at the COP26 summit presented an endorsed position paper by 40,000 people to world leaders to demand the representation of underrepresented groups, recognise the role of cities in achieving a just transition, and respect, protect, fulfill and promote all human rights in climate action. The youth would like their demands be prioritized in climate talks.

Climate change actions can have immense benefits on our economies, health, ensure food and water security. Generally, we must cut emissions, adapt to climate impacts and finance venture that need changes. It will in the long run, improve our lives and protect the environment. Global agreements which include UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement should continue to serve as a guide to measure progress.