Top Ten Environmental Achievements of the 20th Century
These ten environmental achievements are getting us one step closer to sustainability.
Why is it important to focus on the good?
In the face of escalating climate change concerns, it's just as important to recognize the remarkable environmental strides achieved worldwide. Despite the omnipresent threat of human-induced climate change dominating headlines, there's a silver lining: a collective commitment to action and tangible progress.
While there is still a long way to go to achieve a more sustainable world, some achievements prove that there is an improvement in environmentalism. To establish the possibility of repairing and resolving our environmental issues, we must look back at how far we've come and acknowledge all the hard work that those before us have done.
Sustainable achievements of the last decade
In the past ten years, sustainable initiatives worldwide have emerged as environmental stewards, initiating industries ranging from grassroots recycling programs to multinational renewable energy endeavors. The past decade has demonstrated how our collective communities can rally together to address climate change, offering a glimpse into potential mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Here are some of the most notable environmental achievements:
Global Collaboration:
The Paris Agreement, a monumental international accord signed on December 12, 2015, stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against climate change. This landmark agreement united 197 nations in a commitment to curbing greenhouse gas emissions, fostering renewable energy adoption, and safeguarding the environment. By striving to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, the Paris Agreement symbolizes a collective determination to combat climate change.
Renewable Energy Revolution:
Renewable energy sources have recently emerged as the frontrunners in the global energy landscape. A report made by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) revealed that, in 2019, renewable energy became the most cost-effective source of electricity generation, even without subsidies. The exponential growth of resources such as wind and solar energy production has surpassed fossil fuel alternatives, with coal-based electricity production experiencing a significant decline. Nations like the United States and Costa Rica have made substantial strides in transitioning to renewable energy, with renewable sources surpassing coal in electricity generation for the first time.
Rapid Reforestation:
India and Ethiopia shattered records with ambitious tree-planting initiatives to combat deforestation and mitigate climate change. India set a world record in 2016 by planting over 49 million trees in a single day, while Ethiopia surpassed this feat in 2019 by planting over 350 million trees. These reforestation efforts align with commitments made under the Paris Agreement and signify a global dedication to restoring forest ecosystems and enhancing air quality.
Ocean and Wildlife Conservation:
Governments worldwide have intensified efforts to protect vital ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef and combat plastic pollution. Australia committed $500 million to safeguard the Great Barrier Reef from the effects of climate change, recognizing its ecological significance. Initiatives like Canada's ban on microbeads and India's most considerable beach clean-up in Mumbai highlight concerted efforts to mitigate environmental degradation and preserve marine biodiversity.
Looking towards the future
Amidst climate change's daunting challenges, these environmental achievements offer glimmers of hope and inspiration. Countries such as India, Canada, and Australia are proven examples of how political agreements can propel us toward a sustainable future. Looking back at these accomplishments can motivate and guide countries that looking to make radical changes to safeguard their ecosystems.
For those who do not believe that the damage caused by climate change and pollution by large industries such as oil and military forces can be remediated, I ask them to reconsider their beliefs by reviewing these recent accomplishments. A sustainable future is possible.
By fostering global collaboration, embracing renewable energy alternatives, promoting reforestation efforts, and prioritizing conservation initiatives, we can collectively address the urgent threats facing our planet. As we reflect on the past decade's triumphs, let us redouble our efforts to build a sustainable future for future generations.
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Key Takeaways:
The Paris Agreement united 197 nations to combat climate change while limiting the rise in global temperature.
Renewable energy became the most cost-effective source of electricity generation, surpassing fossil fuels. Countries like the United States and Costa Rica made significant strides in transitioning to renewables.
India and Ethiopia set records with ambitious tree-planting initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to combat deforestation and climate change.
Governments worldwide intensified efforts to protect vital ecosystems like the Great Barrier Reef and combat plastic pollution, with initiatives like Canada's microbead ban and India's beach clean-up in Mumbai.
Despite the challenges of climate change, these achievements offer hope. Global collaboration, renewable energy adoption, reforestation, and conservation efforts are crucial for addressing urgent environmental threats and building a sustainable future.