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The Effects of Climate Change
Climate change is no longer a distant threat. Instead, it’s unfolding now, reshaping ecosystems and communities across the globe. As a result, the global debate has intensified: can we truly save our planet, or is that hope just an illusion? Either way, the answer demands bold action and unprecedented collaboration.
Indeed, the signs are everywhere. Sea levels are rising. Glaciers are melting. Wildfires are growing more frequent and destructive. Heatwaves are breaking records. Biodiversity is vanishing. Water cycles are disrupted, bringing longer droughts and more violent floods. Clearly, these effects are no longer predictions—they’re reality.
Saving the Planet: Real Examples
To illustrate the urgency, recent events show how the crisis has escalated. In 2024 alone, 151 extreme weather events displaced over 824,500 people—the highest number since 2008. Moreover, that same year was the warmest ever recorded, with global temperatures averaging 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels. In addition, greenhouse gas concentrations reached levels not seen in 800,000 years.
Furthermore, the Atlantic hurricane season in 2024 was especially destructive. It ranked as the third costliest in history, surpassed only by 2005 and 2017. Notably, it was also the first season since 2019 to produce multiple Category 5 hurricanes.
Meanwhile, wildfires worsened in 2024 and 2025. Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa lost nearly 1.9 million hectares to fire. In Cuba, the province of Pinar del Río saw thousands of hectares consumed—an unusual surge linked to drought and extreme heat. Together, these events underscore the urgency of protecting our planet.
Floods on Every Front
At the same time, flooding has intensified. South Sudan faced major floods that displaced over 100,000 people, with projections reaching 400,000 by year’s end. Similarly, in Latin America and the Caribbean, extreme rains triggered devastating floods and overflows, damaging ecosystems and communities. In Europe, widespread flooding occurred during its hottest year on record, affecting both urban and rural life.
A Collective Commitment
Admittedly, saving the planet is not automatic. Nor is it simple. However, believing it’s impossible leads to paralysis—and that could doom future generations. Therefore, more than a dream, it must become a shared commitment. One rooted in innovation, justice, and responsibility.
Global Agreements and Challenges
On the international stage, frameworks like the Paris Agreement and the UN Climate Convention offer hope. Yet, their implementation remains slow. Why? Because political hesitation, fossil fuel interests, and global inequality all hinder progress. Consequently, these barriers make coordinated action difficult—but not impossible.
COP30: A Defining Moment
Looking ahead, the next UN Climate Summit—COP30—will take place in Belém, Brazil, from November 10 to 21, 2025. During this summit, leaders from 198 countries will gather to negotiate emission cuts, climate adaptation strategies, and a just transition to renewable energy. Without a doubt, this summit could become a turning point in climate diplomacy.
In fact, Belém may host one of the most decisive meetings in history. Heads of state will face the challenge of halting emissions and protecting our shared future. As the world watches, hopes rise for real progress.
One Earth, One Chance
Ultimately, the message is clear: care for the Earth, for there is only one. The time to act is now.
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