Climate change matters

It is being brought out in the press that even if the current pledges by nations at Copenhagen to reduce emissions, there will be 3 degree centigrade rise in the temperature by 2050. However, the projected rise was only 2 degree centigrade. This calls for global action “Now or Never” basis. Every country, irrespective of Developed or Developing, should accept this reality and commit to cut down the emissions by 2020 and commit to review further the situation.

Otherwise, the developing countries which are mostly located in warmer regions, dependent on rains and whose major source of income is agriculture will be worst hit by changing rain patterns, floods, drinking water shortage and droughts. Rising sea levels will affect India the most.

Climate change is thus more than just an environmental threat; it is a threat to our social structures, our families and our own lives. It is important for everyone to take action now.