The Earth’s temperature has risen by an average zero point eleven degrees Fahrenheit per decade since the 1850’s, which is about two degrees Fahrenheit in total. That may not sound like a large increase, but it has affected the world in different ways. Antarctica is starting to have warming oceans which are impacting the glaciers and ice sheets. With the warming of the oceans, it is causing the ice that the polar bears depend on to melt, which results in them losing their habitats and food sources. Polar bears depend mostly on ringed seals. However, with the rising temperatures and warming oceans, it takes the polar bears fifty percent more energy to catch their food, while some are even using more energy than they consume. Meaning that forty percent of the polar bear population in Antarctica is disappearing. “Our study reveals polar bears’ utter dependence on seals.” said author Anthony Pagano, a wildlife biologist at the U.S. Geological Survey. Leahy et al. Besides the possibility of polar bears becoming extinct, other animals are also in danger of extinction due to climate change. Some examples are Monarch Butterflies, bumblebees, Snow leopards, Narwhals, Moose, Tigers, and …show more content…
This prevents integrated water resource management, that balances the needs of communities, and economy in the time of scarcity. (“Study finds climate change is drying out lakes faster than previously thought”) The next major issue with climate change is the oceans, with the rising temperatures affecting the ocean they also affect marine biodiversity. Some examples are the coral reefs, and mangroves that support the ocean life. Moreover, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization predicts that half of marine species will be extinct by 2100. With a one point increase in temperature, there has already been sixty percent of marine ecosystems that have been degraded. When the temperatures rise, it causes a thermal stress to them that causes them to get bleached and have infectious diseases. (“How is climate change affecting coral reefs?”) Climate change, in conclusion, is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed by all countries. If we start to cherish Mother Earth, it will result in her loving us, instead of punishing us. Let’s start with that change in the relationship, there are ways to slow down this environmental