Category Archives: Climate Change

Climate Change, Climate, and Environment

The Compound Effect of Climate Change on Future Generations

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Being curious about this whole “Climate Change” thing, I often reflect on the multifaceted crisis our planet faces. The climate crisis isnโ€™t just about warmer days; itโ€™s a complex web of ecological, economic, and social challenges that threaten our very existence. At the heart of this is a phenomenon I call the ‘compound effect,’ a term borrowed from finance that aptly describes the escalating consequences of climate change.

This Compound Effect of Climate Change illustrates how incremental actions and inactions, particularly regarding climate ignorance, accumulate over time, leading to exponentially greater impacts on future generations. Itโ€™s the extra ton of CO2 emissions from a single car that, when combined with millions of others, contributes to the melting of entire ice sheets. It’s the decision to prioritize immediate convenience over sustainable practices, which then cascades into a future where our children face the brunt of our choices.

The Science of Climate Change

Let’s dive deeper into the science. The greenhouse effect, a natural process crucial for life as we know it, is now our nemesis due to its human-induced intensification. It works like this: solar radiation reaches the Earth, and while some of it is reflected back into space, greenhouse gases like CO2 trap the remaining heat, warming the planet.

CO2 + hv โ†’ CO2*(vibrational\;modes)
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Climate Change, Climate, and Environment

Repurposing $1 trillion in fossil fuel subsidies towards sustainability

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The government gives a lots of subsidies on the fossil fuels every year – more than a trillion dollars in 2022! But using fossil fuel also causes problems for the environment and people’s health, which end up costing over 5 trillion dollars a year. Considering the challenges that today’s world is facing, there are other more effective alternatives towards which these billions and trillions of dollar should be diverged to, i.e. towards more sustainability driven initiatives.

Studies have found that air pollution from fossil fuels causes around 8.7 million early deaths each year. Plus, it’s messing up the climate big time. It’s a huge number, and it means that the fossil fuels when subsidized result in the suffering of humans from the bad health and environmental issues, which must be stopped. So, it’s high time to change our priorities and put our money into renewable energy like wind, solar, and hydro power. It will not only help us in the fight against the changing climate, but it’ll also create new jobs for us. Ideally, we should use this cash to create a more sustainable future for everyone.

Also, to set things in a more clear perspective before I start putting in my thoughts on how we can repurpose it is that, if we factor in the social cost of carbon (SCC), estimated at around $50 per ton of CO2, we can see the true impact of these subsidies. With $1 trillion in fossil fuel subsidies, we’re indirectly supporting the emission of around 20 billion tons of CO2. So, my intent in this blog is to give my own perspective, that is my individual perspective on different ways we could utilize this fund in a much better way. And I would love to hear your perspectives in the comment, or maybe your ideas.

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Climate Change, Renewable & Recycling

India’s challenges & opportunities – Article 6, Paris Agreement

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India’s big step towards tackling the climate crisis by committing to the Paris Agreement is not shadowed on the international forums. Our country has made several ambitious targets to reduce its carbon footprint and increase its use of clean energy. But, as a developing country, we need support from the developed nations to achieve these targets. And, let me tell you, we are making progress, but still, there are areas where more efforts are needed. We need to speed up our efforts to fulfill our commitments and make this planet a better place for future generations.

India’s commitment towards Article 6 of the Paris Agreement

Let me tell you something, India’s aspiration and promising attitude to show the world in the fight against climate change has already caught the limelight in at the event of the Article 6 of Paris Agreement. To strengthen cooperation and support for global action, India has committed to the following initiatives:

Initiative TypeTarget
Renewable Energy175 GW of installed renewable energy capacity by 2022
Energy EfficiencyEnergy equivalent to 20% of the total energy consumption by 2020
Transportation30% of electric vehicles on the road by 2030
Industrial ProcessesReduce the emissions intensity of GDP by 33-35% by 2030 from 2005 level
ForestCreate a carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent through additional forest and tree cover by 2030
Waste ManagementProcess 100% of municipal solid waste by 2023
AgricultureIncrease carbon sequestration in agriculture and allied sectors by 2.5 to 3 GtCO2e by 2030
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Climate Change, Renewable & Recycling

Revealing the transformative potential: Article 6 of Paris Agreement

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Article 6 of the Paris Agreement pertains to the cooperation between Parties in the implementation of the Agreement. It includes provisions for the use of internationally transferred mitigation outcomes (ITMOs) towards achieving nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and the creation of a mechanism to contribute to the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable development. It also establishes a framework for cooperation on, and facilitation of, capacity-building, and transparency of action and support. This Article is one of the key mechanisms to achieve the goal of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial level and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Table Of Contents
  1. Countries with potential to help fellow countries as per Article 6 of the Paris agreement
  2. 7 ways in which sustainable development can be extended as part of the Article 6 of Paris Agreement
  3. Closing Note: Article 6 of the Paris Agreement
  4. Would you like to connect & have a talk?

Countries with potential to help fellow countries as per Article 6 of the Paris agreement

The Paris Agreement, a historic pact signed by nearly 200 countries, emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in tackling this global crisis. Under Article 6, countries are urged to collaborate and support each other in reaching their climate targets.

In the below context, I am trying to drill down the nations that hold the potential to be instrumental in helping other countries reduce their carbon footprint and create a greener tomorrow. Whether through investments in sustainable energy sources, the development and export of low-carbon technologies, or the reduction of dependence on fossil fuels, these nations are poised to make a significant impact in our fight against climate change.

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Climate Change

Unveiling climate models for predicting the Earth’s grim future

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Dear readers, this article expects you to have reasonable understanding of climate and environment as the topic is quite advanced in its nature. Let us delve into the realm of Climate Models, a crucial aspect in comprehending and forecasting the alterations of our beloved planet, Earth’s climate. These models, like a symphony, simulate the interplay between the atmosphere, ocean, land, and sea ice. They serve as seers, predicting the future changes in temperature, precipitation, sea level and other climate variables.

The Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) offer a glimpse into the future, portraying the potential greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on our climate. The results obtained from diverse climate models, through the lens of RCP scenarios, paint a consistent picture of warming, primarily caused by human actions. Though the projections may carry some degree of uncertainty, the overall trend aligns with observational data and the historical records of our planet’s climate.

There are many different models that have been developed to simulate and understand the Earth’s climate. These models are used to project future changes in temperature, precipitation, sea level, and other climate variables based on different scenarios of greenhouse gas emissions. Let’s look at some of the models first:

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Climate Change, Climate, and Environment

The non-climatic benefits of fighting against climate change

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Climate change is not just an environmental concern, but a multifaceted issue that has the potential to impact various spheres of human life. However, what many don’t realize is that addressing climate change can also have several co-benefits that can help to solve other non-climate related problems.

For instance, transitioning to clean energy sources such as wind and solar power can not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also air and water pollution. This, in turn, can lead to improved public health and reduced healthcare costs. Moreover, investing in renewable energy sources can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, thereby increasing energy security and reducing the risk of price fluctuations and supply disruptions.

Also socio-cultural benefits such as building resilient communities, protecting cultural heritage, raising awareness and education, promoting social cohesion, preserving traditional knowledge, and preserving cultural identity can also be factored. Involving and engaging communities in addressing climate change and considering the cultural and social dimensions of climate change is crucial for creating a sustainable and equitable future for all.

Another important aspect is job creation. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy can open up new opportunities in industries such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation. Additionally, reducing greenhouse gas emissions can also help to reduce deforestation, habitat destruction, and other activities that contribute to the loss of biodiversity.

Specific use-cases demonstrating non-climatic benefits

I am targeting in this article to highlight various ways in which investment in sustainable practices and technologies can lead to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improvements in public health. From China’s investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency, to Copenhagen’s investment in cycling infrastructure and Singapore’s comprehensive water management program, each example demonstrates the positive impact that sustainable practices can have on both the environment and public health.

15 Climate Change Books to read in 2022 – Readers list 1
Climate change is causing Earth’s temperature to rise and natural disasters to occur more frequently. And the best way to become conscious is to start by reading some interesting Climate Change books […]

Additionally, many of the below examples will show the economic benefits of these sustainable practices, including cost savings on healthcare and energy consumption. The article emphasizes the potential for cities and states to make a meaningful impact on the environment and public health through strategic investment in sustainable practices.

LocationStudy Conducted byInitiativeReduction in Greenhouse Gas EmissionsImprovement in Other Area
Barcelona, SpainCity of BarcelonaComprehensive green roof program10%Decrease in incidence of heat-related illness
Bogotรก, ColombiaCity GovernmentImplementation of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system20% reduction in transportation emissionsImproved mobility for residents (increase in access to jobs, education and services)
CaliforniaCalifornia Air Resources BoardDeployment of solar power20%6,000 premature deaths avoided and $4.4 billion in health care cost savings. Improved air quality and reduced incidence of respiratory illness
CaliforniaCalifornia Department of TransportationPromotion of green transportation options10%Improved public health, decrease in obesity, heart disease and diabetes
ChinaTsinghua UniversityRenewable energy and energy efficiencyN/A4.3% reduction in PM2.5 (64,800 premature deaths avoided)
ColoradoColorado Energy OfficePromotion of clean energy25%Improved public health, decrease in air pollution and respiratory illness
Copenhagen, DenmarkCity GovernmentInvestment in cycling infrastructure22% reduction in transportation emissionsImproved public health (decrease in cardiovascular disease and obesity)
Copenhagen, DenmarkCity of CopenhagenComprehensive bike-sharing program, and Implementation of urban greening program10% – 15%Reduced incidence of obesity, heart disease, and stroke. Overall Improved public health, decrease in stress and mental health issues
Curitiba, BrazilCity of CuritibaComprehensive public transportation program20%Reduced incidence of obesity, heart disease, and stroke
Curitiba, BrazilCuritiba Municipal GovernmentComprehensive waste management system30%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness and diarrhea
Delhi, IndiaIndian Institute of TechnologyWaste Management and Recycling25% reduction in methane emissions from landfillsImproved sanitation and reduced risk of water pollution
Frankfurt, GermanyCity of FrankfurtComprehensive green building program30%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness, asthma, and allergies
Gujarat, IndiaGujarat Energy Development AgencyPromotion of solar energy20%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness
Jaipur, IndiaTERI (The Energy and Resources Institute)Solar Power Generation30% reduction in CO2 emissions from power generationImproved public health and reduced health care costs due to decrease in air pollution
London, UKGreater London AuthorityComprehensive green infrastructure program15%Reduced incidence of stress and mental health issues
London, United KingdomTransport for LondonComprehensive public transportation system20%Decrease in incidence of physical inactivity and obesity
MaineMaine Department of Marine ResourcesPromotion of sustainable fishing practices15%Decrease in incidence of mercury and other heavy metal exposure
Malmรถ, SwedenCity of MalmรถUrban greening program5%Reduced incidence of stress and mental health issues
MichiganMichigan Department of TransportationPromotion of sustainable transportation20%Improved public health, decrease in obesity, heart disease and diabetes
MinnesotaMinnesota Department of AgriculturePromotion of sustainable agriculture20%Decrease in incidence of pesticide exposure and other environmental health issues
Mumbai, IndiaCenter for Science and EnvironmentTransition to Electric Vehicles35% reduction in CO2 emissions from transportation sector50% reduction in air pollution-related deaths by 2030
New YorkNew York State Energy Research and Development AuthorityPromotion of energy efficiency25%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness, asthma, and allergies
OregonOregon Department of Environmental QualityConservation of wetlands0.5 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent per yearImproved water quality (decrease in the frequency of harmful algal blooms)
OregonOregon Department of ForestryPromotion of sustainable forestry15%Improved public health, decrease in air pollution and respiratory illness
OregonOregon Department of TransportationPromotion of sustainable transportation10%Decrease in incidence of obesity and heart disease
Rio de Janeiro, BrazilMunicipal Secretariat of Environment and Sustainability of Rio de JaneiroComprehensive solid waste management program15%Decrease in incidence of vector-borne diseases and other health issues related to poor sanitation
Seoul, South KoreaSeoul Metropolitan GovernmentComprehensive green city program30%Decrease in incidence of heat-related illness and other health issues related to urbanization
SingaporeBuilding and Construction Authority of SingaporeComprehensive green building program20%Improved public health, decrease in indoor air pollution and respiratory illness
SingaporePublic Utilities Board of SingaporeComprehensive water management program20%Reduced incidence of water-borne diseases
Sydney, AustraliaSydney Water CorporationComprehensive water conservation program15%Reduced incidence of water-borne diseases
TexasTexas Public Utility CommissionPromotion of wind energy15%Improved air quality and reduced incidence of respiratory illness
Toronto, CanadaCity of TorontoComprehensive green space program15%Decrease in incidence of stress and mental health issues
Toronto, CanadaCity of TorontoImplementation of green roof program10%Improved public health, decrease in heat-related illness and other health issues related to urbanization
Toronto, CanadaCity of TorontoTree planting program20%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness, asthma, and allergies
UKEnergy Saving TrustInstallation of energy-efficient measures in low-income households20% reduction in energy consumptionImproved health outcomes (reduction in respiratory symptoms, asthma, and allergies)
Vancouver, CanadaCity of VancouverImplementation of green infrastructure program20%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness, asthma, and allergies, Improved public health, decrease in heat-related illness and other health issues related to urbanization
Vermont, USAVermont Sustainable Jobs FundPromotion of local food systems20%Reduced incidence of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease

The shift towards a more sustainable future is essential for addressing the pressing global issues of climate change, energy security, and resource depletion. A comprehensive approach that incorporates a variety of sustainable practices across different sectors can help to mitigate these challenges and promote economic development, social well-being, and environmental protection.

Startup companies contributing to climate change mitigation
Startup companies contributing to climate change mitigation
There are a number of startups out there that are tackling climate change head on. These companies come from different industries and are using a variety of methods to cut down on greenhouse gases and lessen the effects of climate change. This article showcases some of these innovative firms and their efforts to protect our […]

From renewable energy sources, sustainable land use practices, sustainable transportation options, energy efficient buildings, sustainable water management, sustainable waste management, sustainable urban planning, sustainable tourism, sustainable forestry and fisheries practices, green infrastructure, sustainable agriculture practices, sustainable urban development, green financing mechanisms, and reforestation projects, there are many ways to create a more sustainable future. Implementing these practices can lead to improved energy security, food security, public health outcomes, economic productivity, and resilience to extreme weather events.

Furthermore, investing in sustainable practices can create jobs and stimulate economic growth, lower energy costs, reduce poverty and improve economic competitiveness, improve air quality and reduce noise pollution, protect property and infrastructure, and protect habitats and biodiversity.

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Climate Change, Climate, and Environment

Scientific Papers and Citations for Human-caused Climate Change

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Climate change is a complex issue that affects us all, and it is important to consider all perspectives and viewpoints. If you are skeptical about the scientific evidence, I would encourage you to take a look at the peer-reviewed research papers and documents that I have provided in this article. These studies, conducted by reputable scientists and published in respected journals, provide a solid foundation of scientific evidence that supports the reality of human-caused climate change.

Politics or no-politics, the importance are factual datasets and research, and the intent is not to blindly believe what IPCC says, however, the information they spread should give each individual enough points to dive in and research themselves. Although, the reports that IPCC publishes are widely accepted in the scientific community as they are based on solid scientific evidence.

The LEFT and RIGHT (Skeptical view) debate on climate change
The LEFT and RIGHT (Skeptical view) debate on climate change
The debate on climate change can often be divided into two main camps: those on the “left” and those on the “right.” People who are considered “left-leaning” (Also termed as Skeptical viewpoint) generally think that climate change is a big problem […]

It’s also important to acknowledge that there may be different opinions and views on climate change and it’s impacts, but it is essential to base our understanding and actions on robust scientific evidence, rather than opinions or emotions. I invite you to review the facts and evidence presented here, and to consider the potential consequences if we fail to take action to address climate change.

Note: read with open and clear mind

1. Skepticism often centers around hidden agendas that have emerged in recent years, thus, the citations provided here are from papers and journals dating back from 1980s.
2. The external link may be broken, if so, copy and paste the title and information on Google to find the correct link.
3. Feel free to ask for clarification or raise doubts in the comments.
4. If you wish to add any other notable names, please share the name, paper/citation link, and award/recognition information.
5. If you disagree with the scientists’ publications, provide your basis and relevant links in the comments.
6. Use respectful language when commenting.
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Climate Change

The LEFT and RIGHT (Skeptical view) debate on climate change

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The debate on climate change can often be divided into two main camps: those on the “left” and those on the “right.”

People who are considered “left-leaning” (Also termed as Skeptical viewpoint) generally think that climate change is a big problem that needs to be dealt with right away. They usually support ideas like setting a price on carbon and making rules to limit the amount of greenhouse gases that are released. A lot of people on the left also believe that doing something about climate change is the right thing to do morally and ethically, and that countries that have been releasing a lot of greenhouse gases for a long time have a special responsibility to take action.

People who are considered “right-leaning” usually do not believe that climate change is as big of a problem and that it needs any immediate action. They may say that we do not have enough information to be sure that climate change is happening or that it is caused by human activity, or that it would be too expensive to do something about it. Some people on the right may also believe that people should be free to make their own choices and that economic growth is more important than protecting the environment.

It’s important to remember that not everyone who is considered “left” or “right” feels the same way about climate change. There are many different opinions on this topic and some people may not fit into one of these two groups or might hold a more nuanced position. Also, “left” and “right” can mean different things in different countries and situations.

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Climate Change

Startup companies contributing to climate change mitigation

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There are a number of startups out there that are tackling climate change head on. These companies come from different industries and are using a variety of methods to cut down on greenhouse gases and lessen the effects of climate change. This article showcases some of these innovative firms and their efforts to protect our planet. Please note, its just a small list and I do not have sponsorship from any one of them ๐Ÿ™‚

One company has developed a technology that captures and sequesters CO2 from industrial processes and uses it to make concrete stronger and more durable. Another company specializes in developing and operating facilities that convert waste into clean energy. There is a company that manufactures inverters and other technologies that help optimize the performance of solar energy systems. There is also a company that provides electric vehicle charging infrastructure and related services. Another company has developed a technology that captures CO2 from industrial emissions and uses it to produce chemicals and fuels.

So the idea is to share a small sample of many startup companies that are focused on developing and commercializing innovative technologies and services that directly or indirectly help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

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Climate Change

Why poor experience the most severe effects of climate change?

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Climate change affects everyone, but it disproportionately impacts vulnerable and marginalized communities, including the poor. These communities often have fewer resources and less political power to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

For example, in a coastal community where fishing is a major source of income, rising sea levels and more frequent storms may make it more difficult for fishermen to go out to sea, leading to a loss of income. Without the financial means to adapt, such as by investing in more durable boats or finding alternative sources of income, these individuals and their families may be at risk of poverty and food insecurity.

According to a report by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), between 1995 and 2015, more than 95% of all deaths caused by natural disasters occurred in developing countries. During this period, more than 1.3 million people died as a result of natural disasters, and more than 4.4 billion people were affected.

It is difficult to determine the exact percentage of people living in poverty worldwide, as definitions of poverty and methods of measuring it vary across countries and regions. However, according to the World Bank, as of 2021, about 9.2% of the global population, or about 689 million people, lived in extreme poverty, defined as living on less than $1.90 per day. This represents a significant reduction from 1990, when more than 35% of the global population lived in extreme poverty.

It is important to address the needs and concerns of poor communities in the context of climate change and to ensure that they have the resources and support they need to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of a changing climate.

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