Have you noticed the impact of climate change on our planet? It’s a serious issue that affects everyone, including homeowners and businesses. It can cause an increase in natural disasters such as floods, wildfires, and hurricanes, resulting in significant damage to homes and properties.

In addition, sea level rise resulting from global warming is a major concern, especially for coastal areas. We must take action to prevent and fight a changing climate.

Let’s find out what we can do!

What is It?

It refers to long-term changes in the Earth’s average weather patterns. One of the climate change causes is the buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2). The increase in Earth’s surface temperature is due to greenhouse gases, which trap solar heat and prevent it from escaping back into space. – think of it like a giant, gaseous blanket.

Burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas releases large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere, increasing greenhouse gas levels and global warming.

Causes of Climate Change

While CO2 is the main greenhouse gas responsible for it, other greenhouse gases such as methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases also contribute to the problem. However, CO2 is the most significant greenhouse gas, staying in the atmosphere for a long time.

The Earth’s temperature has risen by about 1 degree Celsius since the pre-industrial era.  This increase in temperature has led to changes in weather patterns, sea levels, and ecosystems worldwide. If we do not take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Earth’s temperature will continue to rise, leading to more severe and frequent natural disasters.

Ten Actions to Prevent Climate Change

The United Nations (UN) has identified ten actions individuals and businesses can take to prevent it and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By following these actions, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and slow the rate of change.

1. Save Energy at Home

In addition to turning off lights and appliances when not in use, you can reduce your energy use by using a programmable thermostat, sealing air leaks in your home, and upgrading to energy-efficient windows and insulation.

2. Walk, Bike, or Take Public Transport

Walking or biking instead of driving doesn’t only help prevent climate change but also has health benefits. If public transport is not an option, consider carpooling or using a car-sharing service.

3. Eat More Vegetables

Livestock farming is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane. Eating more plant-based meals can reduce your carbon footprint and improve your health.

4. Consider Your Means of Travel

Short-haul flights are particularly damaging to the environment due to the high emissions from takeoff and landing. Consider alternative modes of transportation, such as trains or buses, for short trips.

5. Throw Away Less Food

Food waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions by releasing methane as it decomposes in landfills. If you’re thinking about how to stop climate change in small ways, reduce your waste, plan meals, only buy what you need, and compost food scraps.

6. Reduce, Reuse, Repair, and Recycle

The three R’s—reduce, reuse, and recycle—are familiar mantras for reducing waste. Repairing items rather than throwing them away is another way to extend the life of products and reduce waste.

7. Change Your Home’s Energy Source

Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal are becoming more affordable and accessible. That is why installing solar panels or using a community solar program to power your home with clean energy is one of the solutions to climate change.

8. Switch to an Electric Vehicle

Electric vehicles are becoming more affordable and have a smaller carbon footprint than traditional gasoline-powered cars. Consider switching to an electric vehicle if you are in the market for a new car.

9. Make Your Money Count

Consider investing in sustainable businesses and funds prioritizing environmental responsibility. You can also choose to bank with institutions that prioritize environmental sustainability.

10. Speak Up

Contact your elected officials and let them know that you care about the environment. Encourage them to support policies and initiatives that promote sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Effects of Climate Change

The impact of global warming is already being felt around the world. Changes in weather patterns, rising sea levels, and loss of biodiversity are just a few of the many impacts of a changing climate. Here are some of the key effects of it:

• More Frequent and Severe Natural Disasters

It increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods which can cause massive water damage, displacement, and loss of life.

• Rising Sea Levels

Glaciers and ice sheets are melting as global temperatures rise, causing sea levels to rise. As one of the climate change effects, this puts coastal areas at risk of flooding and erosion and can lead to the loss of homes and infrastructure.

• Changes in Weather Patterns

Rising temperatures are causing changes in weather patterns, leading to more extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall. It can impact crop yields and water supplies and even lead to famine.

• Loss of Biodiversity

Climate alterations are causing changes in ecosystems worldwide, leading to biodiversity loss. It can have significant impacts on the food chain, as well as on human health and well-being.

• Economic Impacts

We are already seeing the economic impacts of climate change, natural disasters can cause billions of dollars in damage, while changes in weather patterns can impact agricultural yields and infrastructure.

Final Thoughts

It is a serious global challenge that requires action from individuals, businesses, and governments alike. Let’s all do our part to fight this phenomenon and create a more sustainable future for all. Together, we can make a difference.

At United Restoration, we believe every action counts in the fight against climate change. As a damage restoration company, we have seen firsthand the devastating impact that natural disasters can have on homes and businesses. 

If you’re seeking damage restoration services for your home or business in Florida, Contact Us. Our experienced team provides high-quality restoration services that help you get back on your feet after a natural disaster.