Unfortunately, most of us are painfully aware of the projected catastrophes related to climate change. The haunting images of a planet already in peril linger on the forefront of our minds - polar bears stranded on melting ice caps and birds re-routing migration patterns. But it seems that less attention is given to how a warming climate will impact one of the most wide spread and far reaching species on Earth: humans.
Sadly, the adverse reality of how global warming will affect human life may be the only way to convince climate change skeptics. The devastating effects are made hauntingly real on a new interactive map that tells the tragic tale of the human toll of warming temperatures. From wildfires out West to failing fisheries and human health threats, this global map specifically displays the changes that will affect us all. No matter what country you call home, you can see exactly how climate change may upset - and even threaten - the way you live.
And are these the uninformed projections of pessimists and doom-and-gloom environmentalists? Not even close. The credible sources, including peer-reviewed scientific literature and government-sponsored research, should invite uneasiness in even the most severe of skeptics. You can even click and view the alarming changes already in action - including floods, rising sea levels, and hurricanes since 2000.
Thankfully, there's still time to take action. While this map serves as a useful tool for imagining the imminent effects of climate change, don't let it dissuade you from making a difference. As more people turn fear into action, it's as important as ever to contribute toward meaningful measures that reduce greenhouse gases, curb consumption and capture carbon.
Eventually, as the projected effects of climate change become real, human existence could depend on a local, bottom-up approach to managing the resulting regional problems related to weather, resources, agriculture and disease.
Create a climate change conversation by sharing this powerful map with friends and family. Discuss ideas and strategies for ways to promote anti-warming efforts in your local community. Learn more about how local communities can take action.
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