What if the small choices we make every day such as how we study, what we use, and how much energy we consume is shaping the future of our planet even more than we realize?
Climate change is no longer a distant concept, it is happening now, and its effects are becoming harder to ignore. Rising global temperatures, stronger storms, longer droughts, and melting ice caps are all signs of our planet being under extreme stress. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Earth’s average temperature has already increased by about 1.1 degree celsius since the late 19th century due to human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels.
The consequences are serious. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) says that recent years have been the hottest ever recorded. As temperatures rise, glaciers and polar ice continue to melt, contributing to rising sea levels that threaten communities that are coastal. Wildlife is also struggling to adapt, with many species facing extinction as their habitats change or disappear.
“Sometimes I feel like the world is going to end and people don’t even care,” Gabriana Simms (Sophomore) says when asked about these outgoing issues.
One factor that often goes completely unnoticed in discussions about climate change is our growing use of digital technology. From streaming videos to storing files online, the internet depends on a massive amount of data centers that require large amounts of electricity. The International Energy Agency estimates that data centers currently use about 1–1.5% of the world’s electricity and demand is increasing as technology becomes more advanced.
“I feel impending doom.” Gabriana finished.
This doesn’t mean technology is harmful by itself. Actually, it can be part of the solution. Advanced systems are helping scientists track climate patterns, improve energy efficiency, and develop renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. However, it’s important to recognize that increased reliance on digital tools also comes with extreme environmental costs.
We have more influence than we might think. Simple actions such as reducing energy use, being mindful of how often we rely on energy intensive tools, and staying informed, can make a difference. More importantly, developing our own understanding of issues like climate change allows us to think deeply and make informed decisions in the future.
Climate change is a global challenge, but it starts with individual awareness. The choices we make today will shape the world we live in for the rest of our lives. Now the question still remains, are we ready to take the responsibility of potentially ruining our planet?
