How Sick Is Our Earth?

By Erin Choi

Orange Lutheran High School

In the year 2020, there have been several unnatural phenomena as well as tragic disasters seen around Earth. I think many of us have noticed the extreme weather changes and experienced the impact it had on our lives. Disturbances such as power outages, heat waves, and damage to property were seen often in many areas. What does this say about our Earth? How sick is our planet?

Over the Labor Day weekend, many places in America experienced severe heat waves, and in Southern California, the temperature even reached 110 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the following day, the temperature decreased over 20 degrees, a clear indication of the recent abnormalities in the Earth’s climate. These scorching heat waves have occurred several times, causing large fires during the year such as the huge fire in Australia and now in the west coast of the United States.

In addition, due to global warming, glaciers at the North and South-most points of the Earth have been melting at an unstoppable rate. Researchers have stated that more than 95% of the largest and thickest glaciers have already melted. Not only this, but on February 6, 2020, Antarctica has reached its highest temperature of 64.9 degrees Fahrenheit, warning of the dangers of global warming in the 21st century.

These ongoing events around the world are causing detrimental effects to not only humans but all living organisms. Due to the blazing forest fires, the quality of the air became worse, causing humans to be infected with various diseases of the body. The economy that is reliant on farming may also be negatively affected as property damage will also take place. Also, the melting glaciers are causing sea levels to rise which are destroying homes near the shore and creating more natural disasters due to the heavy moisture. Humans harming the Earth will eventually affect all of us in a treacherous way. “There needs to be a change and we need to take these conditions and signs seriously,” states Lois Chun, a freshman at Cypress High School.

Knowing this, how can we prevent or delay the process of extreme global warming? Chanah Park, a junior at Cypress High School, believes taking initiative on this issue is crucial. She adds, “People should research how to live sustainably such as the little things like bringing your own reusable cups and straws or linen bags to the grocery store to reduce the spending of plastic or paper.” In addition to these small ways of protecting the environment, spreading awareness using social media and raising drives to donate to organizations can not only encourage others to participate in this movement, but heal Mother Nature as well. We know that our planet is in an unpleasant state and humans need to start protecting their one and only place to live: EARTH.