Name: Sofía Peñaherrera

Phase: 6
Date: 15/12/2024

"Climate change is no longer some far-off problem; it is happening here; it is happening

now"

- Barack Obama

Climate Change
The Sun is the primary energy source driving Earth’s climate. Incoming sunlight
interacts with the planet in multiple ways: some is reflected directly back into space,
particularly by bright surfaces like ice and clouds, while the rest is absorbed by Earth’s
surface and atmosphere. This absorbed energy is re-emitted as longwave or infrared
radiation (heat), which the atmosphere further absorbs and re-radiates, with some heat
escaping to space. Any disruption in this delicate balance of incoming and outgoing
energy affects Earth’s climate. For instance, even small changes in the Sun’s energy
output can have noticeable effects.

Without the greenhouse effect, Earth’s average surface temperature would be drastically
colder, rendering life as we know it impossible. Greenhouse gases, such as water vapor,
carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O), play a crucial role in
maintaining the planet’s warmth by absorbing and emitting heat energy in all directions,
including back toward the surface. However, increasing concentrations of greenhouse
gases trap more heat, preventing it from escaping into space and causing the planet to
warm until a new energy balance is reached.

Human Influence on Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Since the Industrial Revolution, atmospheric concentrations of CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O have
increased significantly due to human activities. The Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii
has recorded a steady rise in CO₂ levels from 316 parts per million (ppm) in 1959 to
over 411 ppm by 2019. Methane and nitrous oxide concentrations have also surged,
with CO₂ contributing the largest share of human-caused warming.

Scientists have analyzed air trapped in Antarctic ice cores, revealing that CO₂ levels
remained between 260 and 280 ppm for the last 10,000 years before the 19th century.
Modern concentrations have now surpassed 300 ppm for the first time in at least
800,000 years, an unprecedented spike clearly linked to fossil fuel combustion. Carbon
isotope measurements provide further evidence: modern CO₂ contains a distinct “old
carbon” fingerprint from fossil fuels, confirming human activity as the primary source.

Global Warming Trends

Climate records show a consistent warming trend. Since 1900, global average surface
air temperatures have risen by approximately 1°C (1.8°F), a trend confirmed by
independent analyses of temperature data from land stations, ships, and satellites.
Despite natural variability—such as pauses and accelerations—each of the last four
decades has been warmer than any preceding decade since records began in 1850.

Proxy data from tree rings, ice cores, and marine sediments suggest that recent decades
are the warmest 40-year period in at least the last eight centuries, nearing peak
temperatures last experienced 5,000–10,000 years ago during the warmest part of the
current interglacial period.

This warming has resulted in significant impacts:

• Arctic summer sea ice cover has declined dramatically.

• Ocean heat content has risen.

• Global sea level has increased by approximately 16 cm (6 inches) since 1901

due to thermal expansion and melting ice sheets.

• Changes in temperature and precipitation have altered ecosystems, shifting

species' ranges and life cycles.

• Excess CO₂ absorbed by oceans has caused acidification, disrupting marine

ecosystems.

Climate Feedback Mechanisms

While a doubling of CO₂ alone would raise global average temperatures by 1°C (1.8°F),
feedback mechanisms within the climate system amplify this warming.

1. Water Vapor Feedback: A warmer atmosphere holds more water vapor, which
enhances the greenhouse effect since water vapor is itself a potent greenhouse
gas.

2. Ice-Albedo Feedback: Melting sea ice and snow expose darker surfaces
(oceans or land), which absorb more heat, further increasing temperatures.

3. Cloud Feedback: Changes in cloud cover can either amplify or dampen

warming, depending on their altitude, extent, and properties. Current evidence
suggests clouds have a net amplifying effect on warming.

The ocean plays a moderating role in climate change, acting as a massive heat reservoir.
However, its full depth takes time to warm due to the stratification of surface and deep
waters. Observations show that warming has penetrated the upper ocean since the
1970s, with deeper layers showing clear warming trends since the 1990s.

Human influence: To understand human influence on climate, scientists must consider

natural variations, such as:
• El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO): Cyclical warming and cooling patterns
in the Pacific Ocean that influence global temperature and rainfall.
• Volcanic Eruptions: These emit aerosols that reflect sunlight, causing
temporary surface cooling.
 • Orbital Cycles: Over millennia, variations in Earth’s orbit alter solar energy
distribution, driving ice age cycles.

Climate “fingerprinting” studies compare observed temperature patterns with expected

outcomes of natural and human influences. These analyses reveal that modern warming
closely matches the effects of rising CO₂ rather than solar variability or volcanic
activity.

Future Climate Projections: Using advanced mathematical models of the atmosphere,

ocean, and land, scientists project future climate change under varying emission
scenarios. If greenhouse gas emissions continue on their current trajectory, global
average temperatures could rise by an additional 2.6–4.8°C (4.7–8.6°F) by the end of
the 21st century. Aggressive emission reductions could significantly limit warming,
highlighting the role of policy and technology in shaping future climate outcomes.

Impact on Biodiversity: Climate change is altering ecosystems worldwide, affecting

species’ habitats, ranges, and survival. Science not only helps us understand these
changes but also provides solutions for mitigating their impacts and adapting to a
changing climate.

Impact
Climate change is already impacting the world, with 3.6 billion people, nearly half the
global population, highly vulnerable to its effects. These include droughts, floods,
storms, heat stress, and food insecurity. As global temperatures continue to rise, this
number will only grow.

To address climate change effectively, we mainly must do two things:

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions to slow global warming.

2. Adapt to the unavoidable impacts that are already occurring.

What can we do?

Individuals can contribute by taking simple yet effective measures:

• Plant and preserve trees around homes to keep interiors cooler.

• Clear brush to reduce fire hazards.

• If you own a business, start planning for climate risks, like extreme heat that
could halt outdoor work.
Large-Scale Adaptation Efforts:

Governments and economies must take significant steps to become more resilient to
climate impacts:

• Roads and infrastructure must be built or adapted to withstand rising

temperatures and stronger storms.
 • Coastal cities need flood prevention systems to protect streets and underground
transport.

• Mountain regions must develop solutions to manage landslides and glacial melt
overflow.

Why to invest in adaptation?

Spending on adaptation today is far more cost-effective than reacting later. Globally, a
$1.8 trillion investment in systems like early warning alerts, climate-resilient
infrastructure, improved agriculture, mangrove protection, and water resource
management could yield $7.1 trillion in avoided costs and additional benefits.

For example:
• Solar-powered irrigation and resilient crop varieties could prevent a projected
30% decline in global agricultural yields by 2050.

• Early warning systems provide benefits up to 10 times their cost.

Prioritizing the Most Vulnerable: The communities most affected by climate change
often have the least ability to adapt due to poverty and lack of resources. For instance,
adaptation costs for developing countries are expected to reach $387 billion annually by
2030, yet in 2022, adaptation finance totaled just $32.4 billion.

Global Commitments and Collaborative Solutions: Under the Paris Agreement,

nations committed to strengthening the global response to climate change by enhancing
resilience and adaptive capacity. Article 7.1 outlines the Global Goal on Adaptation,
aimed at reducing vulnerabilities worldwide.

• To date, 55 countries have submitted National Adaptation Plans to address these

challenges, focusing on integrating adaptation into broader development
strategies.

• Collaborative partnerships, like those between Tuvalu and Australia or Spain and
the Dominican Republic, demonstrate innovative ways to scale up adaptation
finance and implement projects.

Nature-Based Solutions: Many solutions lie in nature, which offers cost-effective ways
to protect people and ecosystems:

• Mangrove restoration in countries like Djibouti helps mitigate rising sea levels
while supporting biodiversity and providing food security.

• Cities are also embracing nature-based approaches. For instance:

o San Salvador, El Salvador, is restoring forests to prevent landslides and
floods, while enhancing urban drainage systems that mimic natural water
flows.
 o Miami, USA, is raising street levels and investing in green infrastructure
to address rising sea levels.

Economic and Scientific Evidence for Adaptation: The Adaptation Gap Report
highlights the slow progress in global adaptation due to limited finance. Studies show
that improving systems like early weather forecasts and climate information could save
23,000 lives and generate $162 billion in annual benefits.

Reports from the IPCC assess global and regional impacts, vulnerabilities, and adaptive
capacities, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated action. Meanwhile, initiatives
like the Global Commission on Adaptation underscore the economic benefits of
adaptation to drive commitments from governments, businesses, and investors.
Race to Resilience: The Race to Resilience campaign aims to protect 4 billion people
by 2030 through climate adaptation. Simultaneously, the UN Decade on Ecosystem
Restoration seeks to prevent and reverse environmental degradation over the next
decade.

Adaptation is not just a necessity, it’s an opportunity to safeguard communities,

economies and ecosystems while generating long-term social and financial benefits. The
time to act is now.

Youth Climate Action

Youth Climate Action is a collaborative initiative designed to empower young
individuals to actively engage in the global fight against climate change. A joint effort
between YOUNGOs, CliMates, Aviator, and the International Institute for Sustainable
Development, this platform provides the knowledge, resources, and tools needed to
influence critical discussions at international climate events like the UNFCCC
negotiations. By equipping youth with practical strategies and fostering understanding
of climate processes, Youth Climate Action bridges the gap between awareness and
impactful action, all while working toward the shared goal of limiting global
temperature rise to below 1.5°C.

The website serves as a hub for engagement, encouraging young people to take tangible
steps in shaping climate policy and action. It offers opportunities for youth to
familiarize themselves with COP processes, communicate effectively with officials, and
organize local events and actions that amplify their voices. By building networks and
uniting with like-minded individuals, participants can multiply their impact and
contribute to long-term solutions for global climate challenges. The platform also
highlights the role of media, peaceful advocacy, and collaboration as essential tools in
influencing decision-making and fostering innovation.

At its core, Youth Climate Action recognizes that addressing climate change requires a
united, ongoing effort. By enabling intergenerational dialogue and emphasizing the
interconnectedness of global challenges like climate change and pandemics, the
platform underscores the need for sustainable practices and systemic change. Through
education, collaboration, and strategic action, Youth Climate Action empowers the next
generation to lead the charge for a resilient and equitable future for all.

Ecuador
Indigenous people’s views on climate change are shaped by both their traditional
worldview (cosmovision) and Western science, using survey evidence and interviews
with indigenous leaders in Ecuador. Indigenous communities, particularly the Kichwa
people, emphasize the earth’s centrality in their beliefs, viewing its protection as a core
value. Their understanding of climate change is influenced not only by their spiritual
connection to nature but also by scientific knowledge, showing that traditional beliefs
and science can complement each other rather than conflict. Indigenous people’s
proximity to oil extraction sites increases their awareness of climate change, suggesting
that vulnerability to environmental impacts is tied to personal experiences. This
underscores the need for climate policies that consider both cultural perspectives and the
specific circumstances of affected communities.

What can we do?

Small Ways to Make a Difference
Climate action starts with prevention. It’s more effective to reduce harm before it
happens than to focus on repairing damage later. Recycling and carbon offsetting should
be used as last resorts, not first steps. Your actions matter, and while you may be just
one person, together, our efforts can lead to meaningful change.

Transportation

The transportation sector is the biggest emitter in the U.S., contributing 29% of the
country's carbon footprint. Here’s how you can reduce emissions from your
transportation habits:

• Reduce short trips

• Carpool
• Walk or bike when possible

• Request more bike lanes, sidewalks, and accessible public transport

• Consider buying an electric vehicle

To reduce aviation emissions:

• Avoid non-essential trips

• Take trains for long-distance travel

• Consolidate work meetings or use video calls

• Choose direct flights

• Buy carbon offsets from recognized sources (Gold Standard, QAS)
Plastics

The plastic industry contributes significantly to fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse
gas emissions:

• Stop using single-use plastics (e.g., use reusable water bottles, utensils, and
bags)

• Leave reusable bags in your car or by the door

• Audit your household to identify plastic usage and find alternatives

• Buy in bulk to reduce packaging

• Encourage companies to adopt sustainable packaging

• Follow recycling guidelines

Diet

Food production is responsible for 35% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with
animal agriculture contributing heavily. Here’s how to reduce your diet’s climate
impact:

• Reduce or eliminate meat and animal products

• Start with one meatless day a week, then gradually transition

• Buy local and seasonal foods

• Reduce food waste by planning meals and shopping lists

• Compost food scraps

• Grow your own food (e.g., in a backyard garden or on your counter)

Shopping Habits

The production of electronics, appliances, and clothing all requires significant energy
and resources. To reduce the carbon footprint we should:

• Shop at consignment and thrift stores

• Limit purchases of new electronics and clothes

• Repair old clothing instead of buying new

• Repurpose broken items or old clothing

• Donate, sell, or trade items instead of discarding them

• Reduce small online orders and opt for standard shipping

Energy Use
In the U.S., 79% of energy comes from fossil fuels. To lower household energy
consumption:

• Unplug electronics when not in use

• Switch off lights when leaving a room

• Use LED light bulbs

• Install solar panels

• Insulate your home

• Advocate for more renewable energy investment

Outreach and Advocacy

• Share climate change information on social media

• Discuss climate-friendly changes you’ve made with others

• Contact elected officials about climate concerns

• Ask schools to teach students about climate change

Additional Actions

• Reduce household water use

• Vote for climate-conscious candidates

• Support local and national climate action initiatives

SDG 13
Climate change is a serious and undeniable threat to humanity. Its effects are already
evident and will become catastrophic unless immediate action is taken. Through
education, innovation, and commitment to climate goals, we can make the necessary
changes to protect the planet. These changes also present an opportunity to modernize
infrastructure, create new jobs, and promote global prosperity.

The Targets

• Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related

hazards and disasters in all countries.

• Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies,
and planning.

• Target 13.3: Build knowledge and capacity for climate change mitigation,
adaptation, and early warning systems.
 • Target 13.4: Implement the commitment to mobilize $100 billion annually for
developing countries, supporting climate action under the UN Framework
Convention on Climate Change.

• Target 13.5: Promote mechanisms for climate change planning and management
in least developed countries and small island developing states, focusing on
women, youth, and marginalized communities.

Things to Do

• Support a Goal 13 charity: Your donation can make a real difference.

• Recycle: Recycle paper, glass, plastic, metal, and old electronics.

• Compost: Composting food scraps helps reduce climate impact and recycles
nutrients.

• Choose reusable products: Use eco-friendly bags, water bottles, and cups to cut
plastic waste.

• Buy eco-friendly products: Look for packaging that is produced sustainably.

• Bike, walk, or use public transport: Save car trips for when you need them most.

• Eat less meat: Try going vegetarian one day a week to reduce environmental
impact.

• Reduce paper use: Avoid printing and opt for electronic alternatives.

• Adopt, don’t shop: Visit a shelter and adopt a pet instead of buying one.

• Offset your carbon emissions: Calculate your carbon footprint and purchase
climate credits from Climate Neutral Now.

Figure 1 SDG 13
References
Eisenstadt, T. A., & West, K. J. (s. f.). Indigenous Belief Systems, Science, and Resource
Extraction: Climate Change Attitudes in Ecuador. https://muse.jhu.edu/article/648477

The Global Goals. (2024, 23 enero). Goal 13: Climate action. The Global Goals.
https://www.globalgoals.org/goals/13-climate-action/

LIFESTYLE CHANGES FOR CLIMATE ACTION (s. f.). SAFE worldwide.

https://safeworldwide.org/lifestyle-changes-for-climate-action/

UNDP. (s. f.). Youth4Climate. UNDP. https://www.undp.org/romecentre/our-

programmes/youth4climate

Royal Society. (s.f.) Climate change: evidence and causes. Royal Society.
https://royalsociety.org/news-resources/projects/climate-change-evidence-causes/basics-
of-climate-change/

United Nations. (s. f.). Adapting to the impacts of climate change | United Nations.
https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/climate-adaptation