CLIMATE ACTION – S.D.GS - 13

[Virtual Presenter] Welcome to our presentation on Sustainable Development Goal 13 – Climate Action. Three of us, Rudra, Kartik, and Parthamesh, are 9th grade students who have created this powerpoint to highlight the urgent need for action against climate change. Climate change is a pressing issue in today's world that affects all of us, regardless of our age, gender, or location. Its consequences have a profound impact on the environment, health, and economy. That's why Sustainable Development Goal 13 emphasizes the need for immediate and collective action to combat climate change and its effects. This goal not only focuses on reducing carbon emissions, but also promotes sustainable practices and resilience in adapting to the changing climate. Our planet is at a critical point and requires all of us to come together and take action. As the future generation, it is our responsibility to create a sustainable and healthy environment for ourselves and future generations. Let's join forces and work towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 13 – Climate Action. Thank you for watching our presentation and stay tuned for more insights on this important goal..

[Audio] Slide number 2 of our presentation focuses on Sustainable Development Goal 13, which addresses the issue of climate change. This slide will discuss the definition of climate change and its main causes. Climate change refers to long-term changes in the Earth's climate, including temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other aspects of the climate system. While it has occurred naturally over millions of years, the rapid changes we see today are primarily caused by human activities. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, are the main contributors to climate change. These gases are released into the atmosphere through human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and farming. The buildup of greenhouse gases leads to the greenhouse effect, where heat from the sun is trapped and causes the planet to warm at an unusually fast rate. This is known as global warming and is a significant driver of climate change. It is evident that human actions have a significant impact on climate change and it is our responsibility to take action and reduce our impact on the environment. The next slide will address the consequences of climate change and emphasize the importance of taking action..

[Audio] Slide number 3 of our presentation on Sustainable Development Goal 13 focuses on the evidence of climate change. The Earth's average surface temperature has risen by 1.2°C (2.2°F) since the late 1800s and the last decade was the hottest on record. Glaciers in the Alps, Andes, and Himalayas are shrinking due to rising global temperatures, as well as the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets losing billions of tons of ice per year. Another impact of climate change is the rising sea levels, which have increased by 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) since 1900 and are now rising at a faster rate of over 3 mm per year. These facts clearly show the urgency of taking action against climate change. In the following sections of our presentation, we will discuss how individuals and communities can make a difference in combating this issue..

[Audio] Slide number 4 addresses the main contributor to climate change: human activities. The majority of the observed climate change is a result of human actions, particularly the burning of fossil fuels. This releases greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere, which traps heat and leads to global warming. The most common human activities that contribute to climate change are the burning of fossil fuels for electricity, heating, transportation, and industry. This releases carbon dioxide (CO2), the main greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. Coal and natural gas are the main sources of this gas. However, it should be noted that natural causes also play a small role in climate change, but they cannot fully explain the rapid warming seen in the 20th century. One example of a natural cause is volcanic eruptions, which release aerosols that have a cooling effect. However, the release of CO2 from volcanoes ultimately dominates and causes a temporary warming effect. It is apparent that human activities have the greatest impact on climate change, and it is our responsibility to take action to combat its negative effects. We must reduce our carbon footprint and make more environmentally-friendly choices in our daily lives. Let's all work together to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 13 and take action against climate change..

[Audio] Climate change is an urgent issue facing our planet that requires immediate action. Sustainable Development Goal 13 focuses on two main ways of addressing this issue: mitigation and adaptation. Mitigation involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the Earth's ability to absorb CO2 through measures such as switching to renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency. However, some level of climate change is unavoidable, making adaptation crucial. This involves preparing for the effects of climate change through actions like building flood defenses and developing drought-resistant crops. To effectively address climate change, it is important to take action through both mitigation and adaptation. Let's work towards a more sustainable future for our planet..

[Audio] Slide six presents solutions for addressing climate change. Changes in our daily habits are necessary in order to combat this pressing global issue. The first solution is to transition from using fossil fuels to utilizing clean and renewable energy sources, such as solar power, wind energy, hydropower, and geothermal energy. These sustainable alternatives can help us decrease our carbon footprint and mitigate the effects of climate change. Protecting and planting forests is another vital solution. Deforestation is a major contributor to climate change, therefore it's crucial to preserve rainforests and natural areas. We can also make a positive impact by planting trees and restoring wetlands and grasslands. Supporting reforestation and afforestation programs is crucial to replenish the Earth's forests. Finally, we can make a difference by following the 3 Rs: reduce, reuse, recycle. This means reducing our use of single-use plastics, opting for reusable items, and properly sorting and recycling our waste. By being mindful of our consumption and waste management, we can significantly reduce our impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable world. It's important to remember that it's not about making drastic changes overnight, but making small, sustainable changes that have a long-lasting impact. Let's take action and do our part in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 13 and fighting against climate change..

[Audio] Now, let's focus on our individual role in addressing climate change. We have the ability to make a significant difference through our daily choices. The first important step is to decrease our energy consumption. This can be achieved by simply turning off lights and appliances when they are not in use. Additionally, choosing energy-efficient alternatives such as LED lights and appliances can have a significant impact. We should also consider selecting renewable energy plans if possible. Another key rule is to choose sustainable transportation methods, such as walking, biking, or using public transportation. Carpooling can also help reduce our carbon footprint. Opting for electric or fuel-efficient vehicles is another effective way to decrease our carbon emissions. Lastly, water conservation is crucial. This can be accomplished by fixing leaks and using low-flow taps. Simple actions such as turning off the tap while brushing our teeth can also make a difference. Collecting rainwater for gardening is another way to save water. By following these key rules and taking responsibility, we can make a positive impact in the fight against climate change. Let's all do our part in preserving our planet for future generations..

[Audio] This presentation will cover some of the most significant global climate initiatives that are currently in place. These initiatives aim to address climate change and move towards a more sustainable future. The first initiative is the Paris Agreement, which was established in 2015 and is considered the most important international climate agreement today. It has been signed by more than 190 countries and its goal is to limit global warming to under 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels. Another important initiative is the Global Methane Pledge, launched at the 2021 COP26 conference in Glasgow. Over 100 countries have agreed to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and reducing its emissions can have a significant impact on slowing global warming. Lastly, we have carbon markets and emissions trading, which allow countries and companies to buy and sell carbon credits. This system encourages low-carbon innovation and is also a crucial element of the Kyoto Protocol and has been expanded under the Paris Agreement (in Article 6). These global initiatives demonstrate the dedication of the international community to take action against climate change. By working together and implementing these strategies, we can make a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating a more sustainable future for our planet..

[Audio] In this training video, we have discussed Sustainable Development Goal 13 and the progress and challenges of taking action against climate change. Let's continue to slide number 9, where we will address the challenges that still exist. One major challenge is the continued rise of emissions, despite global efforts to reduce them. Global CO2 emissions are still increasing, particularly in fast-growing economies. This is concerning, as greenhouse gases are a major contributor to climate change. Another challenge is the domination of fossil fuels in global energy use. Although there has been progress in transitioning to renewable energy sources, fossil fuels still make up over 75% of global energy use. This emphasizes the need for ongoing and accelerated efforts to shift towards sustainable and clean energy sources. Despite these challenges, there has been progress in global agreements and cooperation. The Paris Agreement, for example, has brought together almost every country with the shared goal of limiting warming. This demonstrates a global recognition of the urgency to address climate change and move towards a more sustainable future. Additionally, countries are updating their climate targets every 5 years, showing a commitment to continuously improve and adapt to the changing climate. While there are still challenges to face, we must also acknowledge and celebrate the progress that has been made so far. Together, we can work towards a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet and future generations. We hope this training video has given you a better understanding of the progress and challenges of taking action against climate change..

[Audio] Climate change is a present-day crisis affecting people, nature, and economies worldwide. However, we still have time to take action. What can you do now to help combat climate change? Here are a few steps you can take to make a positive impact. Firstly, we can reduce our carbon footprint by using less energy, switching to renewable sources, and choosing public transport or electric vehicles. Another way is by making changes to our diet, such as eating more plant-based meals and wasting less food. Protecting nature is crucial in our fight against climate change, and we can do this by planting trees, supporting reforestation efforts, conserving water, and standing against deforestation and pollution. Whether it's making simple changes in our daily lives or taking a stand against harmful practices, we all have the power to make a difference. Let's take action now for a better and more sustainable future for future generations..

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