The staggering reality of our current situation is that carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are skyrocketing at an alarming rate, surpassing anything that humans have ever faced before. It’s a grim reminder of the damage we are inflicting on our planet as a result of our relentless burning of fossil fuels, releasing CO2 pollution into the atmosphere at an unprecedented pace. The recent data from NOAA, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and the University of California San Diego paints a grim picture of our current trajectory.
The most recent measurements at the Mauna Loa Observatory show that CO2 concentrations hit a record peak of 426.9 parts per million in May 2024, marking a significant increase from the previous year and making it one of the largest annual growth rates in the past half-century.… Continue reading
Carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are skyrocketing at an unprecedented rate, with officials sounding alarms at levels beyond anything humans have ever experienced. The data coming in from NOAA, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and the University of California San Diego is pointing to a grim reality – a reality that we have been aware of for decades but have failed to act upon effectively. The hottest year on record, hottest ocean temperatures, and a slew of extreme weather events are all indicators of a planet in distress.
The surge in carbon dioxide levels is a direct result of our continuous burning of fossil fuels, with the past two years showcasing the largest jump ever recorded in CO2 levels.… Continue reading
It’s hard not to feel a sense of doom and hopelessness when faced with the stark reality of the climate crisis. The recent announcement by the UN chief that the world is on a ‘highway to climate hell’ as the planet endures 12 straight months of unprecedented heat is a chilling wake-up call. The warnings have been there for years, but it seems like we are stuck in a cycle of inaction and complacency, unwilling to make the necessary changes until it’s too late.
The truth is, as long as we are comfortable in our own bubbles of convenience, we are unlikely to take meaningful action to combat climate change.… Continue reading
Living in Phoenix, Arizona, where temperatures soar over 110°F like it’s just another ordinary day, has its own set of challenges. From skyrocketing energy bills to seeking refuge in air-conditioning on a scorching day, being a resident in this sun-baked city demands resilience and adaptation. However, with recent reports of the fire department utilizing ice-filled body bags to treat heatstroke victims, it’s clear that the extreme heatwave has reached unprecedented levels. The notion of being zipped up in a body bag filled with ice for survival sounds chilling, quite literally.
As a paramedic, I understand the gravity of the situation when it comes to treating heatstroke cases.… Continue reading
As a long-time government employee, the news of Project 2025’s plans to dismantle the federal agency that tracks hurricanes strikes a nerve with me. The reasoning behind this decision seems absurd at best and utterly dangerous at worst. Why would anyone think it’s a good idea to abolish a crucial agency responsible for monitoring and predicting one of the most destructive natural disasters on the planet?
The fact that this move is driven by the desire to privatize the functions of the NOAA raises major red flags. Privatizing such essential services opens the door for exploitation by billionaire contractors who are more concerned with profits than public safety.… Continue reading
I woke up this morning and, out of habit, checked the weather in Los Angeles. The news was concerning – temperatures are set to rise to 5 to 10 degrees above normal this week. As I scrolled through my weather app, I couldn’t help but notice the stark contrast in temperatures across the Western United States. While coastal cities like San Diego seem to be relatively unaffected, inland areas like Phoenix are bracing for scorching triple-digit heat. It got me thinking about the extreme weather patterns we’ve been witnessing lately and the underlying issue of climate change.
The heat dome phenomenon isn’t new to those of us living in the West.… Continue reading
As I stare out at the flat, shimmering expanse of the ocean, a deep sense of foreboding settles upon me. The news of Panama preparing to evacuate its first island due to rising sea levels is a stark reminder of the harsh reality of climate change. The cost, both financially and emotionally, is staggering; $1.2 billion just for 38,000 inhabitants is a number that is hard to comprehend. Countries around the world are ill-prepared for the true cost of climate change, especially the impact it will have on displacing people from their homes.
Growing up in a time where the divide between land and sea seemed concrete, it is disheartening to realize how fragile that notion truly is.… Continue reading
Vermont has made headlines recently by becoming the first state to require oil companies to pay for the damage caused by climate change. While this may seem like a step in the right direction, the real question remains: how will this enforcement actually be carried out? As a resident of Colorado, I have seen similar initiatives being passed off onto consumers, with the burden ultimately falling on our shoulders. It makes you wonder if this new legislation is truly about holding oil companies accountable or simply a disguised way to extract more money from the average citizen.
Republican Gov. Phil Scott took a unique approach by allowing the bill to become law without his signature.… Continue reading
Ireland is facing a potential potato shortage, and as an Irishman myself, this news hits close to home. Potatoes are not just a staple in our diet; they are a part of our culture and history. The thought of not having enough potatoes to go around is truly a nightmare for us growers and consumers alike.
While some may scoff at the idea of a potato shortage, dismissing it as a trivial matter, the reality is that potatoes are a significant part of Ireland’s agricultural economy. A shortage could have serious implications for both farmers and consumers. It’s not just about missing out on our favorite potato dishes; it’s about livelihoods being at stake.… Continue reading
The news of Delhi hitting 50.5C, the hottest day on record, is truly terrifying. As someone who has experienced scorching heat in the past, I can attest to the vast difference between 100F and 122F. It’s unimaginable to endure such extreme temperatures, especially when coupled with the intense pollution levels in Delhi. My heart goes out to those who do not have access to air conditioning, as surviving anything over 50C with high humidity is simply not feasible for very long. The thought of millions facing potential mass casualties due to the unbearable heat is harrowing.
During a heatwave in Oregon, I experienced temperatures of 115º F, which was already unbearable.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood