One of the most alarming concerns posing an existential threat to humanity and all living beings on this planet is global warming. The world is grappling with a plethora of crises, including outbreaks of war, chaos, and diseases, which often relegates global warming to the sidelines. However, if not addressed urgently, extreme heat triggered by global warming has the potential to wipe out humanity from this planet entirely.
Global warming can be defined as a gradual rise in the average temperature of the Earth in recent decades. Since the Industrial Revolution, the global annual temperature has risen by more than 1 degree Celsius. According to studies, between 1850 and 1980, the temperature rose on average by 0.07 degrees Celsius every 10 years. However, since 1981, the rate of increase has more than doubled. Studies also confirm that the 10 most recent years have been recorded as the hottest years.
Contrary to the efforts of many leaders across the world to dismiss global warming as a mere hoax, the impacts on the weather and resources demonstrate that it is real. Numerous studies conducted by prominent scientists across the world have confirmed that global warming is real, and human activities are to blame for the increase in the Earth’s temperature. The beginning of global warming dates back to the Industrial Revolution, an era marked by the rampant burning of fossil fuels. Since then, human activities have released huge amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, dramatically altering the Earth’s climate. Rapid deforestation caused by haphazard urbanization is another significant factor contributing to the rise in global warming.
Why is Climate Finance a Focus Area for Nepal?
Global warming has led to an increase in the Earth’s temperature, which exacerbates the melting of glaciers and the rise in sea levels. As the Earth warms, the rate of evaporation and the amount of water vapor in the air both increase, leading to flooding, tsunamis, and landslides. The increased warming also has a profound impact on reducing snow cover. For instance, the iconic Machhapuchhre in Pokhara now wears a deserted look as it is rendered snowless—a devastating consequence of climate change. Similarly, a global shift in climate has resulted in the loss of habitats for several plant and animal species, rendering them homeless, with some already extinct and others on the verge of extinction. The disappearance of even a single species of plant or animal could have a devastating impact on the health of the planet. Moreover, droughts and heatwaves are expected to become more intense, while cold waves will become less intense and less frequent. As seen in different parts of the world, including Nepal, intensifying wildfire seasons and irregular precipitation are other horrifying consequences of global warming.
Global warming is too severe a problem for individuals to combat alone. However, individual efforts can culminate into a larger impact. Some measures to reduce carbon footprints include making energy conservation a part of daily routines and taking careful purchasing decisions as consumers. Efforts as simple as walking short distances or riding bicycles can contribute significantly. While it may rarely register in our conscience, as consumers, we have the power to reverse the cycle of global warming through seemingly minuscule efforts, which, in reality, have the potential to create a tremendous impact. As quoted by the famous celebrity and environmental activist Emma Watson, “As consumers, we have so much power to change the world by being careful in what we buy.” True to this, it starts with making sensible purchase decisions. While buying new appliances like refrigerators, washers, or dryers, consumers should look for products with the government’s Energy Star label, as these meet higher energy efficiency standards than the minimum federal requirements. Similarly, when purchasing automobiles, consumers should opt for vehicles with the highest gas mileage and lowest emissions or choose electric-powered vehicles. These measures, if adopted widely, have the potential to offer respite to our ailing planet.
Nepal might be one of the poorest countries in the world. However, every year, the country sees a record number of passenger car sales. According to studies, the automobile sector is the only segment of the economy that has witnessed consistent growth over the past decade. This growth in the car market indicates that owning a car is no longer seen as a luxury but as a necessity. The growth in this trend can be attributed to various factors, including increasing purchasing power, easy financing from banks, inflow of remittances, and the rise in the number of people earning middle-class incomes. Most importantly, the country’s inefficient and ill-managed public transportation system contributes significantly to this trend. Public transportation in Nepal is plagued with numerous problems, including unreliability, lack of safety, overcrowding, cleanliness issues, and indecent behavior from fellow passengers. Buses are often poorly maintained and poorly regulated. Additionally, overspeeding and low driving standards are some of the factors that discourage the general public from using public vehicles.
It is therefore imperative for the government to develop a comprehensive policy to guide the development of a sustainable transportation system. The state must address issues such as route permits, vehicle capacity, ticket pricing, departure timing, hygiene, safety, comfort, and convenience to encourage the public to use public transportation. Many developed countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, and the UK, have some of the world’s finest public transportation systems. Not surprisingly, public transit accounts for significant mobility in these countries compared to private vehicles. Apart from systematizing the public transportation system, the Nepal government could also encourage the public to use bicycles by installing bicycle lanes throughout cities. Additionally, business organizations can play an active role by incorporating corporate social responsibility into their practices. Manufacturing eco-friendly products and avoiding over-packaging are some measures businesses can adopt to combat climate change.
Global warming poses a grievous peril to all living beings on this planet. Its presence is already being felt across the world and it is on the verge of gaining further momentum if left unchecked. Global warming is a race humanity cannot afford to lose. It is more urgent than ever for governments, businesses, and individuals to take collective initiatives to fight this problem. In the actions of today’s generation lies the promise of a sustainable and thriving world for the generations to come.
