Climate Change Continues to Be a Problem - Essay Example

Human activities are frequently blamed as the root causes of climate change. Similarly, human beings can clean up this mess in little ways. When we are aware of our environment, we gain better consciousness of how we can help in our homes and workplaces. By sometimes riding a bicycle, walking, or taking a bus, and saving electricity, we reduce the greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. Recycling is also important in saving resources and energy.

U.S. Government
Being a developed country, the United States undeniably has a large contribution to producing greenhouse gases that harm the atmosphere. There seem to be no clear-cut federal policies that control or limit such production. However, concerned organizations and experts have several recommendations, and some government leaders pass bills or implement laws in their specific states. For instance, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger implemented law AB 32, which mandates that the state’s greenhouse gas emissions be reduced to 1990 levels by the year 2020, which is approximately 25% (Walsh 2). The need for firm national leadership regarding the problem is needed, but it is essential to see that laws to encourage citizens to participate are not enough. Rather, specific regulations that apply even to the largest industries should be implemented.

Other Countries
Because climate change is perceived as a global problem experienced by the entire humanity, other countries have started addressing it before it would cause irreversible catastrophe. The European Union adopted an energy and climate change policy last December 2008, aiming for a low-carbon, energy-efficient economy in the future (“EU Action”). Several countries are doing little steps toward climate change, but an assertion is the absence of a global action that could present quicker solutions than independent national efforts. Recently, Greenpeace, an international non-government organization, urges Brazil, South Africa, India, and China (BASIC countries) to be global leaders in fighting against climate change (“Lead Fight”), as they also contribute much to greenhouse gases produced. If these countries take the challenge for improvement, it is deemed that other nations will follow.

Conclusion
Climate change is a global problem that can be halted with the collaboration of individuals, the government, and other countries. Several solutions to help our atmosphere’s condition have been suggested, and men, as inhabitants of this earth, are responsible to take action. Individually, we can help reduce greenhouse gases in our homes and offices; the government can come up with national policies for implementation even in industries; and countries can collaborate to find ways to limit greenhouse gas production globally. Read More