Why Are We Killing The Planet?
By Erin Stewart
Who is damaging the planet?
As we know, climate change is a result of people’s actions that are unsustainable (not helping the planet) and cause pollution. Yet not everyone’s actions harm our planet in the same way.
In fact, just 100 companies worldwide have been responsible for 70% (most) of harmful gases produced since 1988. This tells us that a lot of the problems our planet goes through are mostly because of fossil fuel producers including ExxonMobil, BP, Shell and more.
Why are they still doing harmful things?
Although we now understand that producing harmful gases like carbon dioxide and methane contribute to global warming, these companies are continuing to burn fossil fuels. This is because they are able to make a lot of money.
Even though our planet’s wellbeing should be more important, a lot of people would lose their jobs if we suddenly stopped using fossil fuels. This is why it is important to slowly transfer (move) to renewable sources of energy (like wind and solar) to ensure that workers and companies are not harmed in the process.
Another issue is that in some poorer countries that are still developing, they cannot afford to use renewable sources as it is easier and more reliable to burn things like coal. Here in the UK, we have enough money to generate electricity sustainably, yet this is clearly not the case everywhere.
In fact, 46 of the least fortunate nations do not have enough funds to help their environments. As a result, the transfer to renewable energy is something that happens mostly in richer nations that can afford to make these changes. Sadly, some countries have no choice but to burn fossil fuels.
How can developed countries help?
In wealthier nations, aid can be provided to less developed countries. This means that we can give money and send people to help them deal with the impacts of climate change.
The European Union (a group of countries in Europe that work together) and 23 other developed countries have all promised to give $100 billion every year to fund climate related projects in poorer nations. This will help them take care of our planet and will also unite countries across the world in the fight against climate change.
