By, Caitlin S. ’21

This October, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released the “Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5ºC.” In response to an invitation from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), 91 scientists from 40 countries collaborated to create this report. The report describes the effects of climate change that we already see, including more extreme weather, rising sea levels and diminishing Arctic sea ice, while also explaining the benefits of limiting global warming to 1.5ºC, rather than the projected 2ºC tipping point. Hans-Otto Pörtner, Co-Chair of IPCC Working Group II, believes, “Every extra bit of warming matters, especially since warming of 1.5ºC or higher increases the risk associated with long-lasting or irreversible changes, such as the loss of some ecosystems.” To prevent irreversible damage, the reports’ authors call for immediate, drastic action.

Although this action plan requires a large amount of effort on the part of world leaders, taking steps to reduce carbon emissions can “reduce challenging impacts on ecosystems, human health, and well-being.” Exceeding an increase in global temperature of 1.5ºC means a greater reliance on techniques that remove carbon dioxide from the air, but the effectiveness of such devices remains unproven. Debra Roberts, Co-Chair of IPCC Working Group II, affirms, “The decisions we make today are critical in ensuring a safe and sustainable world for everyone, both now and in the future.”

In December 2015, 195 nations adopted the Paris Agreement, which aims to reduce the threat of climate change by “pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.” In June 2017, President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the agreement, stating that it would “undermine [the U.S.] economy” and “put [the U.S.] at a permanent disadvantage.” Trump believes that reducing carbon emissions would cost “millions and millions” of dollars and jobs. Others argue that ambitious climate action is “a key to unlocking inclusive economic growth, creating more jobs, and advancing women’s economic place in the world.”

Regardless of the U.S. government’s stance on climate change, the efforts of individuals have an immense impact on the health of the environment. Teresa Lawlor ’19 and Annie Kaplan ’19, co-heads of COW (Conserve Our World) Club, believe public transportation, diet, and clothing are major areas where an individual can reduce their environmental footprint. Although being environmentally-friendly can be expensive, eating more organic and locally-sourced vegetarian diets can greatly decrease your carbon emissions. As for the fashion industry, Annie Kaplan urged, “Don’t buy trendy stuff from places like Forever 21 and H&M that is going to fall apart after one season of wearing it” because fast fashion is an extremely destructive industry for the environment. Furthermore, instead of using your own car everyday, consider biking, taking public transportation, or carpooling. With the aim of motivating Winsor students to take action in their own communities, COW is currently “starting a hydroponic garden to teach Winsor students about organic gardening and indoor farming,” and the club hopes to “make a petition…asking the city of Boston to make restaurant straws upon request only.”

Dr. Seuss’ character, the Lorax, said it best: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” In order to prevent the global temperature from continuing to increase, individuals must not only urge their leaders to bring about change, but also actively take steps to combat climate change.