Why Climate Change Matters
Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time and its consequences are already being felt in many parts of the world. From floods, droughts, heatwaves, and rising sea levels, climate change is having a devastating impact on people, animals, and the environment.
Impacts on Our Health
Rising temperatures, more extreme weather, and air and water pollution are all linked to climate change. These conditions can have a serious impact on our health, including heat-related illnesses, respiratory problems, and an increased risk of infectious diseases.
Threats to Wildlife
Climate change is also causing species loss and destruction of habitats. Rising temperatures are causing some species to migrate to cooler areas, while others are unable to adapt to the changing climate and are going extinct.
Economic Consequences
The economic consequences of climate change are already being felt. Extreme weather events, such as floods, storms, and droughts, can have a devastating impact on businesses and people’s livelihoods. In addition, rising sea levels are threatening coastal communities and infrastructure.
Why We Need to Act Now
It’s clear that climate change is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed. We need to take action now to reduce emissions, protect habitats, and adapt to the changing climate. By doing so, we can help to protect the planet and ensure a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.