In November 2018, California was affected by several wildfires, the 156,000 acres burned an indicator of what many people believe is climate change. According to sources, California suffered a drought from 2006-2010, with only a short break before the drought continued in 2012-2017. This dry season seems to never stop creating an opportunity for wildfires to start, and that is what occurred in November of 2018. Many people believe that the increased heat spells are a direct indicator of a change in the climate overall.

The Global Carbon Project also noted that carbon dioxide concentrations reached 405.5 parts per million in the atmosphere in 2017, compared with an atmospheric concentration of around 280 ppm in the pre-industrial era. More carbon dioxide in the atmosphere leads to the reflection and trapping of heat, the melting of glaciers, and a rise in the overall sea level, according to The Global Carbon Project.

This happens when the carbon dioxide output from cars and factories is increased. The layer of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere traps in the sun’s heat, causing the Earth’s natural temperature to rise.

Glaciers are melting, making it hard for polar bears to live in their natural habitats. Scientists believe it is not unlikely to see a decrease in Arctic animals over the next couple of years. California is seeing the effects as well; over the next 100 years, sea levels may rise up to 8 feet and corrode coastal cities and states. Different species of sea animals are also suffering due to the warming waters. Things are quite literally heating up quickly with 2015 being one of the hottest years on record ever.

People as a whole have been quick to take action with  innovating new ways to decrease the carbon emission of gasoline powered cars. Renewable energy is also becoming more prevalent, considering that the government often offers decreased costs and/or subsidies to put solar panels on your house. These are just a few ways people are making a difference to lessen emissions.

Many people believe climate change is occurring worldwide; people have tried to create a movement to stop or prevent more climate change, but some are concerned that their words aren’t loud enough.

“The violence that exists in the human heart is also manifest in the symptoms of illness that we see in the Earth, the water, the air and in living things” said Pope Francis.