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Abstract:
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There has been more and more scientific evidence available to prove that we not only do experience a period of high variability of climate and other environment factors, but also live in a trend phase of increasing temperatures, shifting chemical composition to the atmosphere, loss of biodiversity and worldwide deterioration of ecosystems. For the last 50 years, human has changed ecosystems more rapidly and extensively than in any other period. This was done largely to meet the rapid increasing demands for food, fresh water, timber, fiber and fuel.
Environmental change as a global phenomenon can not be dismissed any longer as a pessimistic prediction of a few. Human certainly has been contributing to these trends and humans are and will be among the prime victims of global environmental change. The poorest are the most in danger. We will need both adaptation and mitigation to cope with the huge challenge of climate change.
Actions needed urgently to tackle the effects of climate change on sustainable development, keeping in mind the importance of collaboration of policy makers and scientific researchers. Public awareness and popular participation in climate change issues is crucial to success of the proposed measures. |