There’s a hard truth that society has been ignoring for far too long: our planet is dying. As the situation grows dire, we can only blame ourselves. Fortunately, however, we can save our world. It is going to take implementing global policies that promote clean energy sources, the preservation of natural ecosystems and forests, and informing and motivating people to action.
The climate change that’s occurred in the past century has been a direct result of excess greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere due to human activity. Although many factors play a role in these ever-increasing emissions, the burning of fossil fuels serves as the leading cause.
According to the United Nations, fossil fuels make up 68% of greenhouse gas emissions and 90% of carbon dioxide emissions worldwide. Additionally, in 2025, fossil fuel emissions surpassed a new record at 38.1 billion tons — a 1.1% increase compared to 2024.
Fossil fuels have undeniable consequences on human health because they contain harmful substances such as mercury and lead. Extended exposure to these substances increase risk of cardiovascular diseases, respiratory issues, cancer, and developmental delays.
Humans aren’t the only ones who suffer. Deforestation also plays a major part in climate change, and has resulted in the endangering of many animal species due to the destruction of wildlife habitats.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United States, between 2015 and 2025, over 10.9 million hectares of land were deforested — that’s more than two football fields per year — up to a total of 420 million hectares. On top of that, deforestation holds responsibility for 4.8 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year.
Critics argue that this is not a pressing issue because the climate has always changed naturally, but all it takes is common sense to realize what is happening is in fact no longer natural.
I’ve seen it firsthand, and I’m sure you have too. Wild temperature swings? Your allergies becoming worse every season? The crazy increase in grocery prices? All of these link back to climate change.
So, why should you care?
Well, to put it quite simply, our futures are at risk. Picture a world plagued with food and water insecurity, poverty, economic instability, rising sea levels, and frequent natural disasters. Our planet is on that path.
A poll conducted by MHS Media shows that approximately 89% of the 68 students polled are at least somewhat concerned, or extremely concerned, about the environment.
Despite this, the scary truth is that a majority of youth do not have enough awareness on the topic to effectively take action. The same poll shows that 63% know at most a few things about environmental issues.
In order to combat climate change, we first need to address the lack of education. Schools should have mandated learning implemented into the curriculum covering the causes of climate change, its effects, and what students can do to help.
Additionally, governments and corporations around the world must eliminate mass burnings of fossil fuels and switch to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power. Policies should also be enforced to reduce the alarming rate of deforestation.
The key to saving our future lies within our voices as this world’s youth. It’s time to speak now — before it’s too late.
