The Polar Bear's Ego

I am about to make a bunch of people angry. And that is because I do not care about the polar bear. I mean, I think it is an amazing, majestic species. And yes, those pictures of the polar bear cubs running out of space on the ice sure are depressing. But really, the polar bear is not in the least way the only thing being affected by climate change. I think that the media and even well-intentioned organizations put WAY too much emphasis on the polar bear, making people believe that climate change is something that is affecting just those animals all the way over there, not here. And, most people I know, while they would be quite upset if the polar bear became extinct, would still be able to live their lives without those bears.

And yet, climate change is real, it is here, and it is going to affect you up close and personal. If not today, then at some point in your lifetime (especially if you're young like me!). Let's talk about some other effects besides the dying of the polar bears that are linked to this crisis:

1) Total ecosystem disruption:
Yes, I did just denounce the polar bear. But the truth is, I am a full-fledged animal lover who cares more about wildlife than about people. And much more wildlife is going to suffer (and is already suffering) than just the polar bear. What about coral acidification? I have been to the Great Barrier Reef and it is already losing its color! Those reefs are dying.... and coral reefs are some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. What about birds and their migration patterns? What about the fact that scientists say we are in the sixth major species extinction....EVER. This is a big deal, and may even start to affect species that are close to your home.

2) War
War? What is this crazy kid talking about? Well, as climate change comes in with full force, so will draught, famine, and competition for resources and survival. While this might not be true in America, in other countries this will become a reality. Judging by America's history in foreign policy, these overseas conflicts will become national security conflicts.

3) Storms/Hurricanes
This is even closer to home. As shown by Hurrican Katrina, storms will get and are getting more intense and catastrophic. This will affect you! Are you scared yet?

4) Less snow
Can we talk about the fact that this year in Washington DC we are getting less snow. While it is debatable right now whether this lack of snow is linked to global warming, in the coming years there will be no doubts. I don't know about you all, but I like my snow and I like my snow days.

So I hope at least one of these issues hit home for you. I am trying to show you that climate change is a PERSONAL problem, which is why EVERYONE should be on board in the environmental movement. While these issues sound pretty bad, the point of this blog is to explain the issues but also provide solutions: big and small. So if I captured your interest, keep coming back for more on the issues and the solutions. Bye for now.