By Bob Root, UUCF’s Act for Climate Today! (ACT!).
I recently heard from a friend about her trip to the Antarctic Peninsula. It is summer there, and the penguins, seals, and whales are thriving. But it is not a picture without concern, as the area has experienced an increase in average temperature of 4.5oF since serious record keeping began in 1945. This has led to a variety of changes, including the recession of several glaciers, the movement southward of whole populations of penguins (which displace species of penguins already threatened,) and, perhaps, breakup of parts of several ice shelves. The effects of climate change unquestionably are being felt there.
What about here, with all of this snow and ice? Indeed, climate-change experts said long ago that we would see increased moisture in the atmosphere (from greater evaporation of surface-water bodies) and greater variability in weather patterns. Snow in Orlando is not surprising if you combine areas that do periodically get cold with greater amounts of moisture in the air.
Climate change is indeed happening, and most scientists still believe that human activity is contributing to it. So there still is reason to do what we can to reduce our impacts on the environment by reducing our use of fossil fuels in all aspects of our lives. Every little bit helps. Please check out some suggestions at 10 Ways To Reduce Fossil Fuels In 2026 – Almost Zero Waste.