Climate change refers to long-term changes in the Earth’s weather patterns and temperature caused by various factors, including human activities. The global impact of this phenomenon is currently increasingly felt in various parts of the world, and affects daily life, ecosystems and the economy. One of the most significant impacts of climate change is an increase in global temperatures. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, Earth’s temperature has increased by around 1.1 degrees Celsius since the pre-industrial revolution era. This rise in temperature causes melting of polar ice, resulting in sea level rise that can threaten densely populated coastal areas. In terms of ecosystems, climate change is disrupting the natural habitats of many species, forcing them to adapt or face extinction. For example, coral reefs, which are important marine biodiversity, are threatened by ocean warming and seawater acidification. The phenomenon of coral bleaching is becoming more frequent, reducing fish populations that depend on corals for shelter and food. Health impacts are also a serious issue due to climate change. Rising temperatures and extreme weather conditions can worsen air quality and lengthen allergy season, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses. Additionally, the spread of infectious diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever, can increase with changes in humidity and temperature. Agriculture is threatened by increasingly erratic weather. Crops face the risk of crop failure due to drought, floods and more intensive pest attacks. A study shows that global agricultural output could fall by up to 30% by 2050 if climate change trends continue without significant mitigation measures. This could lead to a food crisis affecting millions of people around the world, especially in developing countries. The global economy is also affected. Costs incurred for emergency response to disasters due to extreme weather, such as storms, floods and forest fires, are increasing rapidly. Many countries have had to allocate large budgets for recovery, diverting resources from other sectors that are also crucial for development. The energy sector faces new challenges in the era of climate change. Energy demand is increasing, but fossil energy sources which cause carbon emissions must also be reduced. The switch to renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, is becoming more urgent to reduce carbon footprints and slow global warming. Climate change also impacts social and political issues. Competition over resources, such as increasingly scarce clean water, can trigger conflict in various regions. Migration due to climate change, or “climate refugees,” will pose a new challenge for countries to accept and integrate affected people. Public education and awareness about climate change is critical to creating collective action. Educational programs and environmental campaigns can encourage individuals and communities to actively participate in climate change mitigation. Thus, all elements of society, including government, the private sector and individuals, must work together to face this challenge. Climate change mitigation efforts, such as reducing carbon emissions and sustainability, are very important to reduce the felt impacts. Increasing energy efficiency, adopting clean technology, and using natural resources sustainably are crucial steps in facing this problem. Without drastic and collaborative action, the impacts of climate change will continue to worsen and threaten human life around the world.
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