Climate change. These days, its two words you hear almost every day. The problem is, although it seems a depressing subject, it's something none of use should ever ignore, especially the younger generation, as it's now up to us to try and fix it!
So, what, really, does climate chance do to our beloved animal species..? Let's take a closer look at some animals effected by climate change. . .
Bird Species
Well, I had to touch on this subject as i know many of the readers will have a special interest in birds. In some cases, bird species have shown to decline by
up to 90% due to climate change. Bird species hit especially hard include migratory, mountain, island, wetland, arctic, antarctic and sea-dwelling birds. These
species that are adapted to thrive in only one narrow environmental niche are the most at risk.
Marine Turtles
Another animal hit by the impacts of climate change are marine turtles. It affects them so heavily because the sea-levels rise, which erodes nesting beach areas
for the turtles. It also causes hotter sea temperatures, which leads to coral bleaching, damaging the turtles' essential feeding habitats.
American Pikas
Less well known climate change poster-girls (such as polar bears), pikas are actually the first mammal to become endangered solely due to climate change.
They are affected because the increasing temperatures pushes mammals to more Northern latitudes. Unfortunately, the pikas cannot do this as they are restricted
to small and disconnected habitats.
How can we all make a difference?
So, I'm sure we're all aware of most of these morbid climate change facts, So here are some ways you can help stop and prevent climate change - today!
1. EAT MEAT ONLY TWICE A WEEK.
18% of greenhouse gases are due to livestock farming. I'm not asking you to become vegetarian, but cutting back a little is not only healthier but also kinder to the environment!
2. NEXT TIME YOU MAKE A CUPPA. . .
. . . only boil what you need. This saves water, and electricity. Besides, why wait longer for the kettle to boil if you don't need a full one?
4. TAKE SHORT SHOWERS, NOT BATHS.
A short shower can save you 10 litres of water for every minute you shave off your bathroom time!
5. WALK, WALK, WALK.
And if you can't walk, cycle. And if you can't do that, catch a bus or train. Try to only use the car when you really really do have to!
6. SWITCH OFF!
Lights, computers, tvs. Whenever you aren't using them. Especially at night!
By Amy S