Human Impact on Climate and Biodiversity

❖ Climate change and biodiversity loss are interlinked issues. They are caused primarily by human activities that negatively impact the environment. It is important to be aware of the causes and consequences of these actions, and to seek adequate solutions for sustainable development – in our communities, nationally, Europe-wide and globally.

❖ The most serious causes of climate change and the normal functioning of ecosystems are:

• Global warming caused by harmful greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere
• Deforestation of large areas
• The use of pesticides and other chemicals in agriculture and animal husbandry
• Use of fossil fuel energy
• Industry and production of raw materials and materials that are not environmentally friendly
• Disposal of waste in landfills instead of separate collection and recycling

❖ What are the most significant consequences?

• Rising average temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, more frequent and intense extreme weather events, sea level rise
• Loss of natural habitats and loss of biodiversity
• Loss of important food resources
• Poorer health
• Economic losses
• Poor quality of life

❖ Which actions that we carry out daily can significantly affect the environment?

• Changing some of our daily habits, such as conserving energy, reducing meat consumption, walking or using bicycles and public transportation
• Restore forests, plant trees, flowers and different types of plants
• Educate ourselves and develop new technologies for sustainable development
• Actively participate in community and volunteer organizations, and national and international forums to reduce the harmful impact of some human actions on the environment.

We all have a responsibility to protect the planet for ourselves and future generations.