Tale Of The Future Analysis

A Tale of Two Futures

As Washington State governor Jay Inslee says, “We are the first generation to feel the sting of climate change, and we are the last generation that can do something about it.” Because of the known threat that climate change poses to the planet and its inhabitants, our futures greatly depend on how the problem of climate change is addressed in the near future. Like Mr. Inslee says, it is up to our generation to decide the Earth’s future and humanity’s fate. This decision involves either making drastic changes in manufacturing legislation, oil and power usage, and huge innovations in renewable energy and manufacturing -or- a lack of change and preventative measures at this time when recovery is still an option. One of these

If inaction is the path that the majority of the world takes, we can look forward to everything from rising temperatures to rising sea levels. Rising sea levels are becoming a major concern. It is believed that sea levels could rise over a foot in the next 100 years, which would seriously impact ecosystems, species, and even coastal cities (National Aeronautics and Space Administration [NASA]). The rising temperatures and sea levels will likely bring more vicious storms to the coast, similar to hurricane Sandy. Another water-related concern is the decrease of fresh water that will be available due to subsiding ice caps which are fresh water stores as well as rising sea levels. Ice caps melting and high temperature also poses the problem of droughts, dust bowls, and agricultural breakdown. While these are just some of the possible products of climate change, one thing is for sure. This kind of future will be hot, salty, dry, and

The growing global awareness of climate change has encouraged governments and corporations to take steps in preventing climate change, such as passing clean energy legislation (Obama’s plan in the U.S.), limiting deforestation (Brazil), reducing carbon emissions (E.U.), and working together as a planet to pass international laws and help counties that are still developing (like China and India) reduce their negative impact (National Public Radio [NPR], 2011). It is true that this future may take longer to show signs of momentum, however, progress in this movement is sure to be in a positive direction. Hopefully, this direction will include collaborative work to ensure that communities help in the fight against climate change, protection of plants, animals, and oceans, increased usage of alternative energy, and most importantly, encourage global mindfulness. Collaboration and a conscious choice to end climate change are all we need for a brighter, climate change free,