May Climate News
As we wrap up another "hottest month on record" and head in to what's sure to be another record-breaking summer, you may find yourself feeling like the climate crisis is too big to solve; like it’s too late to take action for a healthier planet and a sustainable future. But in the wise words of Mary Annaïse Heglar, “I have great news for you: that day is not coming in your lifetime. As long as you have breath in your body, you will have work to do.” So, let’s get to The Good Stuff…
The Good Stuff
Clean air, DO care: The EPA has finalized stricter air quality standards for soot, lowering the acceptable level from 12 micrograms per cubic meter to 9 micrograms per cubic meter. This adjustment is expected to save up to 4,500 lives annually, reduce 290,000 lost workdays, and provide up to $46 billion in net health benefits by 2032. Read the EPA's Official Statement Here.
On Point Offsets: Visiting Juneau, Alaska, can be emissions-heavy, but an innovative carbon offset program is turning tourists' dollars into local benefits by funding heat pumps for residents. This approach not only mitigates CO2 emissions but also reduces heating costs for locals, proving to be a win-win for both the environment and the community. This unique initiative could serve as a model for other regions. Read on via Grist.
A Voice of Reason: Florida meteorologist Steve MacLaughlin condemned Governor Ron DeSantis's "don't say climate change" law on air, urging viewers to vote for candidates who believe in climate change and offer solutions. Highlighting record heat, flooding, and dying corals, MacLaughlin criticized the rollback of crucial climate legislation and stressed the power of voting in addressing climate issues. His bold stance has garnered widespread praise and highlighted the increasing harassment faced by meteorologists over climate crisis reporting. Read on via CNN.
The Bad Stuff
A Growing Threat in a Warming World: Research suggests that climate change is increasing turbulence in jet streams, with predictions of a doubling or tripling of severe turbulence in coming decades. Incidents like the recent deadly turbulence on a Singapore Airlines flight highlighting its dangers. Read on via Bloomberg.
Hunker Down for Hurricane Season: NOAA’s 2024 Atlantic hurricane season forecast predicts a record-breaking season with 17 to 25 named storms, 8 to 13 hurricanes, and 4 to 7 major hurricanes. Factors contributing to this increased activity include near-record warm ocean temperatures, developing La Niña conditions, and reduced wind shear, all favoring storm formation. NOAA also introduced new tools and models to enhance forecasting and preparedness, urging the public to be vigilant and ready for a potentially very active season. Read on via CBS News.
Mangroves in Peril: Half of the world's mangrove forests are at risk of collapse due to human activities. Key threats include rising sea levels, coastal development, pollution, and dam construction, with regions like southern India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and parts of the South China Sea and central Pacific being most endangered. The loss of these ecosystems, which provide crucial services such as coastal protection, carbon storage, and support for fisheries, would be disastrous for nature and people globally. Read on via The Guardian.
On the Horizon: The Connection Between Climate Action and Pride Month
June is Pride Month, a time to honor the strength, resilience, and joy of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. It is also an opportunity to raise and spread awareness about the unique intersection between queer and trans rights and climate justice. Did you know the climate crisis disproportionately affects marginalized groups like the LGBTQIA2S+ community? Climate change is considered a "threat multiplier" which means it exacerbates existing inequalities and vulnerabilities. Factors such as discrimination, homelessness, and lack of access to resources make queer and trans individuals more susceptible to the impacts of climate change, including natural disasters and environmental pollution. Urgent action is needed to address these interconnected struggles and promote climate justice and equality for all. Explore further to understand the critical intersection between the climate and queer movements via Greenpeace.