Mark R Henderson Lead Auditor SHEQ Info-sec and BCP’s Post

What is Climate Change and why is it important? The quest to “master nature” to serve human needs has led to unintended and alarming consequences. Today's news is rife with startling reminders of how climate change affects people around the world, from wildfires and floods to the loss of biodiversity and even human lives. But what exactly is climate change? Climate change refers to the long-term transformation of Earth’s weather conditions. The phenomenon is caused by many natural and human-induced factors. Imagine the Earth as a giant greenhouse. Normally, the sun’s heat comes in and keeps things warm enough for us to live comfortably. But when we burn fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas for energy, we release extra gases into the air. These gases trap more heat, making our “greenhouse” warmer than it should be. This leads to glaciers melting, sea levels rising, and weather events like hurricanes and droughts becoming more extreme and frequent. The growth and prosperity of businesses and organisations worldwide should not come at the cost of the environment. While the challenge might seem overwhelming, there is a path to a sustainable future. Here, we explain some key terms related to climate change, such as greenhouse gases and net zero, and also uncover some of the tools organisations can adopt to address climate change and promote development in an integrated and balanced way. Table of contents What is the greenhouse effect? What is net zero? Climate change solutions for a healthy future What is climate finance? What are the Sustainable Development Goals? What is ESG reporting and why does it matter? Basics of an environmental management system ISO standards and climate change What is the greenhouse effect? Climate change is largely caused by a process called the greenhouse effect. When the sun’s energy reaches the Earth, some of it is reflected back to space, while the rest is absorbed and re-radiated by greenhouse gases. These gases include water vapour, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and other gases naturally present in the atmosphere. Think of it as a blanket. Just as a blanket keeps you warm by trapping body heat, greenhouse gases keep the Earth warm by trapping heat from the sun. This heat helps to maintain the Earth’s average temperature, making it hospitable for life as we know it. In recent years, however, human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have increased concentrations of these greenhouse gases. The result? An increase in global temperatures is fundamentally altering the planet’s climate system. Interested in learning more? Read about the basics of the greenhouse effect.

Title: Climate Warning: Urgent Action Needed to Save Our Planet Introduction: The Earth's climate is changing at an unprecedented rate, posing significant threats to our planet and future generations. Climate change is primarily caused by human activities, as we emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, leading to rising global temperatures and numerous detrimental effects. It is essential to acknowledge this climate warning and take immediate, collective action to mitigate its impacts and preserve the health of our planet. I. The Science Behind Climate Change: - The greenhouse effect: Human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation release vast amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, causing the Earth's temperature to rise. - Rising global temperatures: The Earth's average temperature has increased by approximately 1 degree Celsius since the pre-industrial era. If we fail to limit warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, we risk irreversible and catastrophic consequences. II. Consequences of Climate Change: - Extreme weather events: Heatwaves, hurricanes, droughts, and floods are becoming more frequent and intense, resulting in significant loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, and economic impacts. - Melting ice caps and rising sea levels: As global temperatures rise, ice caps and glaciers are melting at alarming rates, contributing to rising sea levels. This endangers coastal communities, ecosystems, and island nations, leading to displacement and loss of biodiversity. - Ecosystem disruption: Climate change disrupts ecosystems, affecting plant and animal species, causing habitat loss, and triggering imbalances in food chains. III. Mitigating Climate Change: - Transition to renewable energy: Shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power is crucial in reducing CO2 emissions and curbing global warming. - Sustainable practices: Embracing sustainable transportation, energy-efficient technologies, and responsible land use can significantly contribute to combating climate change. - Forest conservation and reforestation: Protecting and restoring our forests are vital for carbon sequestration, as they absorb CO2 from the atmosphere. - International cooperation: Increased collaboration between countries is necessary to establish global agreements, set emission reduction targets, and promote sustainable development. Conclusion: The warning signs are clear, and the urgency to act on climate change has never been greater. By acknowledging the severity of the climate warning and implementing meaningful changes, we can limit the impacts of global warming, protect vulnerable communities, and preserve the ecological balance of our planet. It is our responsibility to hand over a sustainable and habitable Earth to future generations. Let us unite in taking immediate action for the sake of our planet's survival.

✨️We must all understand some terms in Climate Change.🧨 The European Climate Pact platform has several resources to assist us in how we can talk or communicate about Climate Change as an ambassador I always learn from these resources.European Climate Pact PL 🎯The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon essential for maintaining Earth's temperature within a range suitable for life. Here's how it works: 1. ✨️Natural Greenhouse Effect: Sunlight penetrates the Earth's atmosphere, warming its surface. Some of this heat is then radiated back towards space as infrared radiation. 🎯Greenhouse gases (such as water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide) in the atmosphere absorb some of this outgoing heat, trapping it like the glass panels of a greenhouse. 🎯This absorption and re-emission of infrared radiation by greenhouse gases help keep the Earth's surface warm enough to support life. 2. ✨️Human-Caused Greenhouse Effect: While the natural greenhouse effect is necessary and beneficial, human activities have intensified it, leading to what is commonly known as anthropogenic or human-caused global warming. 🎯This occurs primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels (such as coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy, deforestation, industrial processes, and Unsustainable Agricultural practices. 🎯These activities release large amounts of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere, enhancing the natural greenhouse effect. 🎯As a result, more heat is trapped in the atmosphere, leading to a rise in global temperatures, disruption of weather patterns, sea level rise, melting of polar ice caps, and other adverse environmental impacts. 🎯This human-induced climate change poses significant challenges to ecosystems, economies, and human societies worldwide. 🎯While the natural greenhouse effect is necessary for maintaining Earth's habitable climate, the human-caused enhancement of this effect through the release of greenhouse gases is leading to detrimental consequences, collectively referred to as climate change. 🎯Addressing this human-induced climate change requires urgent and concerted efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, and implement sustainable practices to mitigate its impacts on the planet and future generations. Achieving the transition to a climate-neutral EU will not be easy, but by working together, we have the power to shape a more sustainable future and improve people’s lives – through cleaner environments, healthier food, better-insulated homes, new green jobs and opportunities to innovate.” – Executive Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič. UN Climate Change Climate Cardinals EU Environment and Climate European Climate Foundation European Climate Pact TR United Nations Careers United Nations World Food Programme Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI)

Climate Change Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, affecting ecosystems, human health, and economies worldwide. It refers to significant and lasting changes in the Earth's climate, primarily driven by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. This essay explores the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action. Causes of Climate Change The primary cause of climate change is the increase in greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) are the most significant contributors. The burning of fossil fuels for energy and transportation is the largest source of CO2 emissions. Deforestation, which reduces the number of trees that can absorb CO2, further exacerbates the problem. Agriculture and livestock farming release methane and nitrous oxide, making these sectors critical to addressing climate change. Impacts of Climate Change The impacts of climate change are far-reaching and multifaceted. One of the most visible effects is the increase in global temperatures, leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves. This rise in temperature contributes to melting glaciers and polar ice, causing sea levels to rise and threatening coastal communities. Additionally, climate change disrupts weather patterns, resulting in more intense storms, floods, and droughts. These extreme weather events can devastate agriculture, leading to food shortages and increased prices. Ecosystems are also affected, with many species facing extinction due to shifting habitats and altered food availability. Human health is at risk as well, with increased heat-related illnesses, respiratory problems from air pollution, and the spread of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever. Solutions to Climate Change Addressing climate change requires a multifaceted approach, combining local, national, and global efforts. Transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power is crucial to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Implementing energy efficiency measures can further decrease emissions while saving costs. Reforestation and afforestation efforts can help absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, while sustainable agriculture practices can minimize emissions from farming. Promoting public transportation, electric vehicles, and other low-carbon alternatives can also contribute to reducing emissions. International cooperation is essential. Agreements such as the Paris Agreement aim to unite countries in the fight against climate change by setting targets for emissions reductions. Public awareness and education are equally important; individuals can make a significant impact through lifestyle changes, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting sustainable practices.

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global or regional climate patterns, primarily attributed to the increase in greenhouse gas concentrations in the Earth's atmosphere due to human activities. The primary greenhouse gas responsible for climate change is carbon dioxide (CO2), emitted through the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas. The consequences of climate change include rising temperatures, melting ice caps and glaciers, sea-level rise, extreme weather events (such as hurricanes, droughts, and floods), shifts in precipitation patterns, disruption of ecosystems, and negative impacts on human health and livelihoods. To navigate climate change effectively, it requires collective action at various levels, including individuals, communities, businesses, and governments. Here are some key strategies to consider are as follows 1. Mitigation: Mitigation involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions to slow down the pace of climate change. This can be achieved by transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, promoting sustainable transportation, and adopting environmentally friendly agricultural practices 2. Adaptation: Adaptation focuses on adjusting to the changing climate to minimize its negative impacts. This includes developing resilient infrastructure, implementing effective water management strategies, protecting vulnerable ecosystems, and enhancing early warning systems for extreme weather events. 3. Transition to a low-carbon economy: Shifting from a fossil fuel-based economy to a low-carbon economy is essential. This involves investing in clean technologies, supporting renewable energy development, and promoting sustainable business practices. 4. Sustainable land use and conservation: Protecting and restoring forests, wetlands, and other natural habitats can help sequester carbon dioxide and preserve biodiversity. Sustainable land management practices, such as agroforestry and regenerative agriculture, can also contribute to climate change mitigation. 5. Education and awareness: Raising awareness about climate change and its impacts is crucial for encouraging individual and collective action. Education can empower people to make informed choices, adopt sustainable behaviors, and advocate for climate-friendly policies. 6. International cooperation: Climate change is a global challenge, requiring international cooperation and agreements. Efforts like the Paris Agreement aim to unite nations in combating climate change and facilitating the sharing of knowledge, resources, and technologies. It's important to note that addressing climate change requires sustained commitment and collaboration from all sectors of society. By taking proactive measures and making sustainable choices, we can navigate the challenges of climate change and work towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

The Urgent Need for Global Action on Climate Change: What You Need to Know Climate change is a pressing issue that impacts every corner of the globe. The urgency for global action on climate change has never been greater, as the effects of rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea level rise become more apparent. In order to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change, it is crucial that countries around the world come together to enact bold and effective policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a more sustainable future. One of the key factors driving climate change is the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat and raise global temperatures, leading to a host of negative consequences including more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, and hurricanes. In addition, melting ice caps and glaciers are causing sea levels to rise, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems. To address the urgent need for global action on climate change, countries must commit to ambitious emissions reduction targets in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. This landmark international accord aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with a further target of 1.5 degrees Celsius. Achieving these goals will require a rapid transition away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. In addition to reducing emissions, it is also important to enhance the resilience of communities and ecosystems to the impacts of climate change. This includes investing in infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events, protecting natural habitats that sequester carbon, and promoting sustainable land use and agriculture practices that minimize deforestation and soil degradation. Individuals can also play a role in addressing climate change by making lifestyle choices that reduce their carbon footprint. This could include driving less, using public transportation, biking or walking, eating a plant-based diet, and conserving energy at home through energy-efficient appliances and insulation. In conclusion, the urgent need for global action on climate change requires a concerted effort from governments, businesses, and individuals alike. By working together to reduce emissions, protect natural ecosystems, and build resilience to the impacts of climate change, we can create a more sustainable future for future generations. It is imperative that we take action now to protect the environment and ensure a healthy planet for all. Keywords: Climate change, global action, greenhouse gas emissions, renewable energy, Paris Agreement, resilience, sustainable future, carbon footprint, natural ecosystems. Protecting the environment is not just a responsibility, it is a collective duty that we all must uphold for the sake of o

Dive into Sustainability: Understanding Science-Based Targets In the quest for sustainable growth, the Science-Based Target initiative (SBTi) emerges as a guiding light, directing businesses towards a future of reduced carbon footprints and environmental stewardship. Discover the transformative power of Science-Based Targets in this article. Plus, gain insights into the step-by-step process of developing and validating SBTs, ensuring alignment with current climate science and global warming limits. Read the full article on our website to explore the significance of Science-Based Targets (SBTs), their implementation process, and the benefits they offer to businesses and the planet. https://lnkd.in/dvRWG5JB

Climate Change: The Greatest Threat to our Existence It is widely known that climate change is one of the greatest threats facing humanity and our planet. The impacts of a warming climate are already being felt around the world, from rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events, to droughts (droughts can have far-reaching impacts, threatening water supplies, agricultural production, and human health and livelihoods), wildfires, and ecosystem collapse. Without swift and coordinated global action to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy, the future of our civilization is at grave risk. As guardians of this planet, it is our duty to act really fast. The scientific evidence is overwhelming. Since the industrial revolution, human activities like the burning of fossil fuels have released massive amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases are causing the planet to warm at an alarming rate. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the United Nations body for assessing the science related to climate change, has unequivocally stated that human influence has warmed the climate at a rate that is unprecedented in at least the last 2000 years. The consequences of this warming are severe and wide-ranging. Rising sea levels threaten to submerge low-lying coastal regions and islands, displacing millions of people. Extreme weather like heat waves, droughts, wildfires, and floods are becoming more frequent and intense, leading to loss of life, economic damage, and food and water insecurity. If global temperature rise exceeds 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, the impacts will be catastrophic and potentially irreversible. Meeting this crucial temperature target will require cutting global emissions nearly in half by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Addressing climate change is also critical to achieving the UN SDGs, a set of 17 interconnected goals aimed at creating a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous world by 2030. Climate action is known as SDG 13, but climate change impacts all of the other SDGs. Fortunately, the technological solutions to address climate change already exist. Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal power are now cheaper than fossil fuels in many parts of the world. Electric vehicles, energy-efficient buildings, and sustainable agriculture practices can dramatically reduce emissions. The clock is ticking, but we still have a chance to avoid the worst impacts of climate change and create a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future. At ADU, climate change is a big component of our institute for sustainable futures. “Climate change is the greatest threat to our existence in our short history on this planet. Nobody’s going to buy their way out of its effects.” - Mark Ruffalo Hamad Odhabi Professor Barry O'Mahony Montasir Qasymeh Khulud Abdallah Abu Dhabi University

Continuing with the attributes of modern warming here is last but not least: --> e) Greenhouse gases- 95% of confidence is that the modern cause of climate is caused due to greenhouse gases. The cause of the warming due to the increase in the greenhouse gases over the past two centuries is immense. --> Discussing the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs): --> SSP1 - It is for a sustainable world where economies would be focusing on an environment friendly path. As by 2075, pulling down the carbon within the atmosphere. These low emissions are focused to increase the temperature of 2 degree Celsius. --> SSP2 – It gives an idea about the trends which are going on in the world. As in it is similar to economic growth in SSP1. The carbon dioxide emissions in this scenario has shown an increase in temperature of 3 degree Celsius. --> SSP3 – In this economic inequality comes into the scenario as it leads to an increase in the conflicts between religions. Under this the carbon dioxide emission has shown a massive increase in the temperature by 4.5 degree Celsius. --> SSP5 – It focuses on economic growth rather than sustainability and excessive coal consumption. The carbon emissions are increasing because of this reason and leading to an increase in temperature by 5.5 degree Celsius. --> Here comes into the picture the impact of climate change: --> Temperature- High temperature creates negative effects on society. As in higher temperatures would lead to less productivity and encouragement by the people who cannot work outside and create the demand for running air conditions leading to cost more money. --> Precipitation- It is another key aspect of the climate. As in if there is an increase in the temperature there would be an increase in the evaporation rate. There is a pattern referred to as “wet getting wetter, dry getting drier”. --> Sea Level and Ocean Acidification- Sea level rise is the direct effect of climate change with the main future alarming scenario i.e. melting of the grounded ice. Whereas ocean acidification is the consequence of emissions of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere which ends up in oceans where carbon dioxide is converted into carbonic acid. --> To keep a check on these alarming changes there comes into picture the policy responses to stop these climate changes: --> Mitigation- It refers to the action that reduces emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases thereby preventing the climate from changing. --> Geo-Engineering- It refers to actively manipulating the climate system to prevent the climate from changing despite continuing greenhouse gas emissions. There are two categories which are foreseen i.e. solar radiation management and geo-engineering. --> Greenwashing- The act of providing false/misleading information about environment friendly operations.

🌎Understanding the Basics of Climate Change and Taking Action Today 🌍 Climate change represents one of the most critical challenges confronting humanity today, driven predominantly by anthropogenic activities that elevate greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. Over the past century, the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas has substantially increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and other greenhouse gases. These emissions have enhanced the greenhouse effect, leading to a significant rise in global temperatures. This phenomenon is not merely a theoretical future threat; its impacts are evident now. Rising sea levels, diminishing ice caps, and increasing frequency of extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, and storms are stark indicators of a warming planet. These changes are exerting profound impacts on ecosystems, human health, and global economies. The scientific consensus on climate change is robust and unequivocal. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports that global temperatures have already risen by approximately 1.1 degrees Celsius since the pre-industrial era. The past few decades have been the warmest in recorded history, with 19 of the 20 hottest years occurring since 2001. The consequences of this warming are far-reaching, including intensified extreme weather events that cause widespread destruction and loss of life. These impact are more pronounced , with vulnerable populations in developing countries bearing the brunt of climate-related adversities, such as food and water insecurity, displacement, and loss of livelihoods. Addressing climate requires immediate and coordinated global action. Some actionable steps we can take today: * Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Transition to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Encourage businesses to adopt energy-efficient practices and technologies. * Support Reforestation and Conservation Efforts: Plant trees and support organizations dedicated to preserving forests and natural habitats. * Advocate for Policy Change: Engage with policymakers to promote regulations that limit carbon emissions and support sustainable practices. *Invest in Sustainable Infrastructure: Support the development of resilient infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change. *Educate and Raise Awareness: Share information about climate change and its impacts to help others understand the urgency of the issue. The challenges of climate change require collaboration across all sectors of society, including governments, businesses, non-governmental organizations, and individuals. By harnessing collective expertise and resources, we can drive innovation and implement sustainable solutions. Let us unite to forge a resilient and sustainable future. Connect with me to discuss and collaborate on impactful climate initiative. #lilifeysonsustainability #changemakers #climatechange