It is clearer now than ever that our world is in a climate crisis. The burning of fossil fuels has caused an increase in global temperatures and air pollution levels, drastically altering weather patterns. However, the upcoming years do not have to yield disaster and doom for our planet. They can bring swift, preventative action that will change the course of human history. Our future is not set in stone, and we, as citizens of Earth, have the power to forge our own path.
What are Fossil Fuels?
Fossil fuels are the most essential sources of energy in our world today. But where do we get them, exactly? Over millions of years, the remains of ancient plants and animals buried deep within the ground have been subject to intense heat and pressure. As a result, the remains have turned into three types of fossil fuel: coal, oil, and natural gas. Today, these resources are fundamental in powering our society, from transportation to electricity to agriculture.
Many other products are produced from fossil fuels, including paints, cosmetics, and even some medicines. While these resources have allowed for innovation, ease, and prosperity, they are putting the public’s health at risk, and are irreversibly damaging the planet. If our society seeks to move toward a green, safe future for all, the first step is to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Leadership in America Today
President Trump has consistently denied that climate change exists. He has immensely expanded the fossil fuel industry, while also lifting sixty-four protective laws put in place by previous presidents. His campaign website also describes his “…intent to withdraw the U.S. from the unfair Paris Climate Agreement.” His decision has made the United States the only nation to withdraw from the agreement, which has been signed by almost two hundred countries. The Agreement showed unprecedented coordination between global leaders to limit the environmental damage done by corporations.
Plans from the Democratic Nominee
Representing the Democratic party in the upcoming election is former Vice President, Joe Biden. He not only believes in the climate crisis facing our society and planet, but he is also ready to act on it. On his campaign website, he promises to go beyond simply rejoining the Paris Climate Agreement with putting in place his plan that will make sure “the U.S. achieves a 100% clean energy economy and net-zero emissions no later than 2050.” These climate policies make it clear: Joe Biden is a president for the planet, while Donald Trump is for the fossil fuel CEOs and profit.
The Great Choice
The presidential election is less than six months away, and the effects of the election will affect the whole world for decades to come. Since fossil fuels are so integrated into modern-day society, transitioning off of them will be no easy task; we must start now if we want to mitigate the worst effects of climate change. In this turning point in America’s and the world’s history, the facts have never been clearer and climate action has never been so urgent.
Currently, President Trump is taking steps backward, enabling big-name polluters that are responsible for putting the public’s health at risk and allowing them to destroy the planet. If the people elect him again, the effects will be felt throughout this century. According to research done by the World Health Organization, “Air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year.” The fate of millions lies in the crossfire between political parties. It is time we set our differences aside and elect a leader that will secure our future and value the people over profits.
Hope for the Future
With all the suffering that the coronavirus has brought, it has also taught leaders some key lessons regarding the future of our planet. People around the world have been urged to social distance and stay home, causing the average person to travel far less. Due to these drastic changes over the past few months, the skies and waterways are clearing of pollution, and wildlife is returning to their natural habitats. The pandemic has proven that there is still hope for a clean future if we are committed to drastically reducing our fossil fuel emissions. However, if we decide to ignore these learnings, the climate crisis will only continue to get worse. The people have the power to decide which way history unfolds.
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