Global Warming: There Is No Planet B – Part 1

By Choi Ha-rang, Sunae Elementary School

In Chicago, there is a clock that does not tell the time of the day, but it tells how close humans are to destruction. It is called the Doomsday Clock. In 2026, the Doomsday Clock showed us that there were 85 seconds left until the end of the world.

One of the main reasons for this is global warming. Global warming is long-term in how it affects Earth’s average temperature. There are a lot of causes of global warming. Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide, which is the most common greenhouse gas.

Also, trees naturally absorb CO₂ through photosynthesis. However, people cut down trees for agriculture and logging, which reduces this carbon-absorbing capacity. Due to these reasons, global warming is becoming worse and worse.

Global warming impacts Earth in many ways. Firstly, the temperature rises. The average global temperature has risen by 1.2 degrees Celsius since the 19th century. The heat has caused thousands of deaths and reduced crop yields.

Also, global warming can make Earth’s ice melt, which will lead to rising sea levels. Glaciers and polar ice caps are shrinking. Sea levels are increasing by approximately 3.3 millimeters per year. Even though the situation is serious, many people are trying to stop global warming, and there are some ways to do this.

Firstly, we need to plant many trees. Reforestation and forest conservation help absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Also, instead of using cars, we should walk short distances. Cars produce CO₂, so we can reduce carbon emissions when we use cars less. Recycling, reducing plastic use, and choosing sustainable products can also help since these methods can decrease environmental impact.

There are many inspiring climate activists, too. One of the most famous activists is Greta Thunberg. Her movement, “Fridays for Future,” quickly spread worldwide, inspiring millions of students to demand urgent climate action from political leaders. She has spoken at global events, such as the United Nations Climate Action Summit, urging world leaders to take responsibility.

Greta Thunberg emphasizes that climate change is not just an environmental issue but a moral issue. She argues that today’s decisions will shape the lives of future generations.

Global warming is one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity. It is largely caused by human activity, and its consequences are becoming increasingly severe. However, I believe there is still enough time to change the future. Whether the future is bright or dark is in our hands.