It is hard to go five minutes without reading or hearing news reports about climate change and its destructive effects around the world. Seven in ten Americans say they are worried about climate change. Count me as one of those seven. Not only am I growing concerned with what I am seeing in the world, but also from what I am witnessing in my hometown.
From record-breaking high temperatures to severe flash floods and increasing windstorms, the Pittsburgh area has suffered much loss from changing weather patterns. Local communities are on the front lines of the climate crisis, facing real impacts today. How much more can we take?
We see every day that our world is changing faster than predicted. The climate crisis is hurting people in Pennsylvania, harming our country and devastating our world. More than 97% of climate scientists agree that climate change is real and is caused by human activity, yet here in the U.S., a significant number of people don’t think it’s a threat.
Regardless of your political leanings, there is one fundamental truth for all human beings on this planet: Our collective security and prosperity depend on a stable climate. The United Nations says we have a decade to curb global emissions and limit the worst impacts of the climate crisis. It’s going to take everyone — young voices, businesses, cities, states, universities — realizing the power they have to drive this change. We need everyone to join us.
Emily Kutzavitch
Robinson
The writer is an ambassador for the World Wildlife Fund.