Myth 1: Climate change is an environmental issue
Climate change is an environmental challenge but it is far from being an environmental issue only. Changing climate will affect our environment but also food production, access to water and energy, habitats, sea levels, temperatures and more. Moreover, climate change and poverty are inextricably linked and to end poverty within a generation, we need climate action now.
Myth 2: Climate change and global warming are the same thing
No they are not. Climate change is the change in climatic patterns due to natural and man-made causes while global warming, which means a rise in temperatures, is a result of climate change. Since 1900, every decade has been warmer than the previous one and 2014 was the hottest year on record- a reality endorsed by reports of the world’s top meteorological agencies (NASA, NOAA, UK Met Office, JMA)
Myth 3: Climate change does not affect ME
While one may think climate change is restricted to the low-lying Pacific islands or the drought-prone regions of Africa, the truth is it affects each and every one of us. Extreme weather events, production of food staples like corn, beans and wheat, rising sea levels, we are all either directly or indirectly affected by climate change. Consider this: coastal areas around the world will be threatened by rising sea levels and 13 of the 15 largest cities in the world are on coastal plains.
Myth 4: Climate change is an issue of the future not the present
While it is always easy to put things off for later, climate action cannot afford to wait. Failing to act now to curb emissions and keep the rise in temperature below the 2 degree Celsius mark will impact sea levels, food security and habitats drastically. From the food we eat to the extreme weather events that are affecting countries around the world (Superstorm Sandy, typhoon Haiyan, Cyclone Pam to name a few), climate change is affecting us, and our planet today.
Myth 5: Climate change is only the government’s responsibility
To keep below the 2 degree Celsius mark we need strong action and commitment by countries on reducing emissions through policy, legislative and structural reform. The UN process forms the cornerstone for these efforts and WWF works closely with governments as an advisor and civil society representative to support this climate action. Yet, given the extent of the climate challenge and the role each of us has to play in both the cause and impact of climate change, it is critical that every one use their power to change climate change too. From sustainable lifestyle and behavior to being a part of global movements like Earth Hour and supporting climate and conservation projects through crowdfunding and crowdsourcing, there is so much you can do to make a difference. Use #YourPower to Change Climate Change now!
Discover answers to more myths on climate change including whether or not it is a natural cycle or even real at all in our next article coming up shortly!
climate change, myths