Is a Mass Extinction Coming? How Climate Change is Pushing Ecosystems to the Brink

By Team Unread Why

Climate Change: What’s next?

Imagine the world being silent, dividing the chirping of birds, bees, and crickets. This scenario is a common and real possibility, fuelled by the rising restlessness of global temperatures. Climate change is no longer a threat but a reality, and its impact on the ecosystem is effectively pushing not only humans but also small creatures as with each year, we are moving towards a state where things cant go back to where it was earlier.

Fragile balance and heating planet

Earth is thriving on a dedicated balance, from small insects to joints.  All the creatures play a vital role in the ecosystem. However, climate change potentially disrupts the cycle of life. According to NASA‘s Climate Change, the earth’s average temperature exceeds 1 Degree Celsius above the industrial level. The rising sea levels are constantly threatening the coastal ecosystem by melting glaciers. The scenario disrupts the supplies of freshwater in both aquatic and terrestrial regions.

The Domino effect:  How the loss of one and trigger many

The extinction of a single species can impact other living entities, too. If the ocean’s temperature rises too high, the coral reef could be disrupted by weakening it and making it vulnerable to disease and storms. The extinction of coral reefs can also impact countless fish by causing them to lose their habitat and food sources. This domino effect considerably has a pessimistic impact on the ecosystem. This condition can also impact the industries associated with tourism and food security.

Mass Extinction Event

Climate change
Image Credit: WWF

In the present era, the current species extinction rate is estimated with the natural background rate. According to World Wildlife,  the earth is facing a Sixth Mass Extension event. The study has explained that a short period of geological time can impact biodiversity and distinct species such as bacteria, plants, fungi, mammals, birds, fishes, amphibians, etc.

Fighting Against Time

The positive part is there is still time. Actionable considerations associated with renewable energy sources like solar and wind can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Greenhouse gas emissions can be considered one of the key drivers of climate change. The protection of the existing ecosystem is also considered to be one of the crucial matters. Some of the initiatives, like implementing sustainable forest practices, would help reduce the intensity of habitat destruction and the vast amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Individual action for change

Large-scale solutions provide impactful solutions. However, individual action also reduces carbon footprints from public transportation, motorcycles, etc. Significant adoption of energy-efficient and sustainable options would significantly impact the environment by reducing the negative effects of climate change. To make a difference, individuals can take some actionable measures to reduce carbon footprints by replacing fuel-generated public transport with walking and cycling options. Individuals can Embrace a sustainable lifestyle by taking the initiative on some factors such as reducing, reusing, and recycling by choosing eco-friendly products and maintaining a commitment towards sustainability.

Knowledge is Power. Spreading awareness regarding climate change actions and sharing information related to the potential impact on the ecosystem would contribute to handling the adverse situation. Engaging in discussions with friends and families regarding climate change and the balance of ecosystems can raise awareness for taking collective actions. Associating with support organizations or NGOs working to conserve forests and climate change solutions helps maintain the planet’s biodiversity efficiently.

By acknowledging the urgency of a suitable solution, we can prevent the issues associated with mass extinction events by building a suitable future generation. By working together on climate change, the symphony of plants can be improved with endangered species from mass extension to climate change.

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Saturday, Sep 21, 2024