SDG #13 is CLIMATE ACTION

SDG #13 is CLIMATE ACTION!

This SDG recognizes that climate change is real and already having an enormous impact on all of our lives! Average global temperatures have been steadily rising since the beginning of the industrial revolution. The scientific consensus is that this rise in temperature is man-made. We must all realize that we’re living in a world where we’ll have to make lifestyle changes if we want our children to enjoy the same quality of life that we have. Without change, permanent damage is inevitable. SDG #13 asks us to make URGENT changes to how our economies work and how we respond to natural disasters. 

Preparing for our New Reality

Communities and Governments around the world need to adapt and build in response to climate change. Awareness-building campaigns are needed to educate and prepare citizens to deal with increased storm activity and more extreme weather. Specifically, $100 billion is needed by developed nations in order to address their climate preparedness needs. The Green Climate Fund is one well-known avenue by which this money will be directed towards projects that assist with climate change preparedness. Smart and sustainable investments have the ability to go a long way towards addressing these needs. 

The Impact of Government

As of May 2019, 168 out of 197 parties at the United Nations have signed their commitment to the Paris Agreement. Unfortunately, the United States has recently withdrawn from this climate agreement that was created to reduce harmful emissions through a cohesive global effort. It’s essential that all continue to pressure their governments to generate and meet commitments addressing climate change. Only then can we have a hope for not only the survival but the success of all in our societies.