As I think everyone knows, we are currently in a serious climate crisis. Just this weekend in the news we have flash floods and landslides predicted for parts of California, some of which are just beginning to try to heal from this summer’s fires. And bomb cyclones are predicted for early in the week in the Midwest. Whether or not you believe that climate change is real, you cannot deny the severe weather patterns that we have been seeing lately. And you cannot deny that these changes are getting worse, not better. Unfortunately, this isn’t really a new story. The first climate scientist was an amateur named Guy Callendar who, through years of careful observation and recording of atmospheric gasses, temperatures, rainfall, and fossil fuel consumption created the first climate change model showing how we are destroying our planet. He presented his findings to the Royal Meteorological Society in 1938, but was essentially ignored.

It wasn’t until the 1970s that people began to actually look at climate change in a serious light. And it wasn’t until 1988 that the climate movement had a real spokesman in NASA researcher James Hansen. To this day, he has been outspoken in criticism of world governments to address these issues. Former Vice President Al Gore also took up the call to action by writing two books about environmental conditions and by pushing for a carbon tax to help reduce fossil fuel use. He also launched GLOBE, an organization that teaches students about environmental awareness.

Pioneers like these people and many others, laid the foundation for modern day climate advocates. This day is to show our appreciation for all of these people, and to pressure our leaders to start making real progress on real solutions. So what can we do? There are lots of events going on both online and in person all over the world. So go out and take a hike or a bike ride, join a march or a peaceful protest, sign a petition, or write to your congressman or senator. Also consider ways that you can reduce your own carbon footprint. Changes can start today, but they have to be consistent in order to save the only home we have!

If you enjoy beautiful nature photography and artwork along with informative and entertaining animal and nature related content, then you will love this blog! Join us by subscribing below. It’s easy and free!