Let's start with the basics, the definition. According to the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change), climate change is any modification / alteration of the climate, attributed directly or indirectly to human activity. In other words, it is the result that is generated from all the activities we carry out, mainly derived from the use of fossil fuels and with it the excessive generation of greenhouse gases (GHG).
What are greenhouse gases?
They are those gases that make up the atmosphere, which absorb and generate radiation. The issue with these gases is that although it is true that there are gases of natural origin; There are also gases that originate from human activities and when they exceed the permissible limits, they become harmful.
What are the effects of climate change?
Climate change has caused several negative effects worldwide; Among the most prominent negatively we have:
Temperature increase
Thaw
Lack of water
Decrease in agricultural production
Increase in meteorological phenomena
Coral reef damage
Disappearance of some habitats
Increased heat waves
Sea level rise
Damage to health
The environmental crisis that we are currently experiencing is the result of years of mistreatment of our environment, we live in an uncontrolled urbanization. At this rate, it is increasingly difficult for us to meet our "needs" without continuing to cause irreversible damage.
How can I help to improve the situation?
Join the campaign launched by the UN "Act Now", which focuses on creating individual actions, starting with 10 simple actions to reduce the impact and thereby contribute to limiting climate change:
Save energy at home
Much of our electricity and heating is powered by coal, oil, and gas. Use less energy by reducing the use of heating and air conditioning, switching to LED spotlights and energy-efficient appliances, washing clothes in cold water, and hanging clothes instead of using the dryer. You will also save money!
Drive less
The world's roads are saturated with vehicles, most of which run on diesel or gasoline. Walking or cycling, instead of using the car, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and is beneficial for health and fitness. For longer distances, consider traveling by train or bus. And do carpool whenever possible.
Eat more vegetables
Eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, and less meat and dairy products, can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Plant-based food production typically generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions and requires less energy, land, and water.
Use airplanes less
Airplanes burn large amounts of fossil fuels, and produce significant greenhouse gas emissions. This makes flying less one of the fastest ways to reduce your environmental impact. When possible, meet virtually, travel by train, or skip a long-distance trip if you don't have to.
Waste less food
When food is thrown away, the resources and energy that went into growing, producing, packaging and transporting it are also wasted. And when food spoils in a landfill, it produces methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. So, use what you buy and compost the leftovers.
Consume less, reuse, repair and recycle
The electronics, clothing and other items we buy generate carbon emissions at every link in the production chain, from the extraction of raw materials to manufacturing and transporting the products to market. To protect our climate, buy less, buy second-hand, repair what you can and recycle.
Use wind power or solar energy
Ask your electric company if your home is powered by oil, coal, or gas. If possible, switch to renewable energy, such as wind power or solar. Or install solar panels on the roof to generate energy for your home.
Change an electric vehicle
If you are planning to buy a car, consider opting for an electric model. More and more models are being sold at a lower price. Although they run on electricity produced from fossil fuels, electric cars help reduce air pollution and generate far fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline or diesel vehicles.
Choose ecological products
How you spend the money has consequences for the planet. You can choose which goods and services you support. To reduce your environmental impact, buy local and seasonal food, and choose products from companies that use resources responsibly and are committed to reducing their gas and waste emissions.
Express your opinion
Spread the voice to the word and get other people involved. It is one of the fastest and most effective ways to make a difference. Talk to your neighbors, colleagues, friends and family. Tell companies that you support bold changes. And ask local and world leaders to take action.
-October 24 International Day Climate -
Send an email to dkolbeck@rcdhotels.com for more information