Protecting Our Planet: Understanding Climate Change and Environmental Safeguards – Insights from Euractiv Italia

In her essay, “Environmental Protection and Climate Change,” student Alejandra Navascués from CEU Sanchinarro addresses a pressing issue: climate change. She stresses that while our planet is in distress, we have the ability to enact meaningful change.

Understanding Climate Change

Alejandra starts by detailing the biggest contributors to climate change:

• Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Human activities have intensified the greenhouse effect, primarily through CO₂ emissions.
• Deforestation: Cutting down trees limits our planet’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide.
• Industrialization: This has escalated energy use and pollution.

These factors are closely linked, creating a cycle that jeopardizes biodiversity, disrupts weather patterns, and harms ocean life.

Moving from Awareness to Action

Alejandra goes beyond identifying problems. She suggests practical solutions everyone can adopt, especially young people:

• Renewable Energy: Using solar panels and wind turbines can reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• Changing Habits: Simple actions, like using less hot water or turning off lights, can make a difference.
• Climate Education: Teaching others about climate issues empowers broader action.

Her focus is on everyday sustainability—small, consistent efforts that add up to significant change.

Protecting Nature and Ourselves

She highlights the dangers posed by rising sea levels and coral reef degradation. Protecting the environment is essential for our survival. If we ignore nature’s needs, we risk our well-being.

The Role of Young People

What makes Alejandra’s essay stand out is its focus on young Europeans. She believes they can be real changemakers.

“If we raise awareness and take action, we can change the current situation and protect the Earth for future generations,” she states.

Her message is hopeful, emphasizing both responsibility and optimism.

The Global Context

Recent studies show that climate change is not just a future concern—it’s happening now. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), we are facing increased natural disasters and extreme weather events worldwide. A 2022 survey revealed that 70% of young adults feel anxious about climate change, highlighting the urgency for action.

Conclusion

Alejandra encourages us to rethink our role in combating climate change. By taking small steps and educating ourselves and others, we can work toward a healthier planet. Tackling climate change is a collective effort, and it starts with us.

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