p.1
Individual Actions and Climate Impact
What is the significance of individual action in addressing climate change?
It raises the question of whether personal efforts can significantly impact the larger climate crisis.
p.3
Human Development and Climate Change
What has been the peak atmospheric concentration of CO2 before the Industrial Revolution?
Below 300 parts per million.
p.2
Planetary Boundaries Framework
How does climate change relate to planetary boundaries?
Climate change is a core boundary that influences other boundaries like biodiversity and freshwater.
What are some consequences of climate change mentioned?
Worsening climate trends, human and ecological impacts, and food insecurity.
p.3
Human Development and Climate Change
What are major contributors to increased CO2 emissions?
Fossil fuel use, industrialization, urbanization, deforestation, and intensive agriculture.
p.2
Impact of Human Activities on Earth Systems
What are the implications of exceeding planetary boundaries?
It can cause irreversible environmental damage and disrupt critical Earth systems.
p.1
Climate Tipping Points
What are climate tipping points?
Irreversible changes in the climate system that can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
p.2
Global Temperature Trends
What significant temperature milestone was reached in 2023?
38 days with global temperatures above 1.5˚C by September 12.
p.2
Human Development and Climate Change
How do planetary boundaries provide guidance for policy making?
They help in identifying safe limits for human activities to ensure sustainable development.
p.1
Climate Emergency Evidence
What does the Ripple article analyze?
The graphic vital signs of climate change over the last 40 years and changes in global human activities.
p.3
Economic Inequality and Climate Vulnerability
How do developed nations contribute to climate change?
They contribute disproportionately to emissions.
What is the Anthropocene Epoch?
An unofficial unit of geologic time describing the recent period when human activity significantly impacts Earth's boundaries.
p.2
Planetary Boundaries Framework
Why are planetary boundaries important?
They identify critical Earth system processes with safe limits and guide sustainable development.
What are the consequences of the severity and speed of environmental changes?
Threats posed to ecosystems and humanity related to human existence.
p.3
Individual Actions and Climate Impact
What dietary change can significantly impact an individual's carbon footprint?
Switch to a plant-based diet.
p.1
Climate Emergency Evidence
Why is climate change considered an emergency?
Due to damaging the environment, global warming, worsening trends, and food insecurity.
What does venturing into uncharted territory mean in the context of environmental changes?
It refers to exploring unknown impacts and consequences of rapid environmental changes.
p.3
Economic Inequality and Climate Vulnerability
How does economic inequality affect climate vulnerability?
It exacerbates the impact of climate change on lower-income populations.
p.1
Planetary Boundaries Framework
What is the planetary boundaries framework?
A framework that explores the limits within which humanity can safely operate to avoid catastrophic environmental change.
p.3
Human Development and Climate Change
What is the current global CO2 concentration since the Industrial Revolution?
Climbed to 400 parts per million.
p.2
Climate Tipping Points
What risks are associated with exceeding temperature limits?
The risk of crossing tipping points and potential irreversible shifts in Earth systems.
p.1
Human Development and Climate Change
How does human development contribute to climate change?
Through activities that increase greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion.
p.2
Planetary Boundaries Framework
What are planetary boundaries?
A framework to describe the limits of human impacts on Earth systems.
p.1
Climate Emergency Evidence
What indicates that current global action is insufficient?
Current policies are inadequate to address the growing climate risks.
p.3
Individual Actions and Climate Impact
What is a recommended action regarding transportation to reduce carbon footprint?
Drive less or switch to electric vehicles.