Climate change is one of the most pressing environmental issues in the world today. Based on scientific reports from the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change), the earth’s temperature has increased by an average of 1.1 degrees Celsius since the end of the 19th century. This increase in temperature triggers various significant impacts on ecosystems, humans and the global economy. One of the most visible impacts is the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather phenomena. Floods, droughts and tropical storms are becoming increasingly common, threatening food security especially in developing countries. According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization), climate change could reduce crop yields by up to 30% by 2050 if no mitigation steps are taken. Climate change is also causing the melting of polar and mountain ice, which is contributing to sea level rise. Coastal cities such as Jakarta, Miami and New Orleans are at risk of sinking, threatening millions of lives and vital infrastructure. Projections say that by 2100, sea levels could rise between 0.5 and 2 meters depending on the level of greenhouse gas emissions. The health impact is also no less important. Rising temperatures contribute to the spread of common diseases such as malaria and dengue, because mosquitoes can reproduce more quickly. Poor air quality is also increasing, triggering respiratory problems among vulnerable populations. The WHO report states that more than 4 million deaths occur every year due to air pollution, which is increasingly exacerbated by the effects of climate change. Given these challenges, many countries are starting to implement policies to reduce carbon emissions. The 2015 Paris Agreement is a concrete example of global efforts, where countries pledged to limit global temperature rise to below 2 degrees Celsius. The transition to renewable energy such as solar and wind is a major focus, with investment increasing significantly in this sector. At the local level, communities are also taking action. Green initiatives and urban farming are emerging in various cities as solutions to address food security and reduce carbon footprints. Environmental education and awareness among society is also increasing, helping individuals and groups contribute to fighting the climate crisis. With a better understanding of the impacts of climate change, it is hoped that collective action can reduce the effects of this disaster. Therefore, monitoring world environmental news regularly is an important step so that we can all contribute to efforts to preserve the earth.
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