The Grantham Institute at Imperial College London has released a compelling video, "How can taking action on climate change make all our lives better?", which underscores the wide-ranging benefits of addressing climate change. The video, which has garnered attention since its release on September 11, 2018, delves into how climate action can simultaneously address various societal issues, from improving public health to boosting the economy.

The video outlines several key areas where climate action can make a significant impact. Firstly, it highlights the role of improved energy efficiency in homes, which not only helps alleviate poverty by reducing heating costs but also decreases the risk of illnesses like asthma and pneumonia. This, in turn, could lead to substantial savings for the NHS.

The transition to electric vehicles is another focal point. The video points out that electric vehicles can drastically reduce air pollution, particularly in city centres, helping everyone breathe cleaner air. Additionally, promoting cycling and walking can further reduce pollution and improve overall public health.

Dietary changes are also discussed, with a focus on the health benefits of consuming less meat. A diet lower in saturated fats can reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.

Economically, the video emphasises the job creation potential in the low-carbon economy. It also notes that climate action can reduce the risk of extreme weather events, which can disrupt lives and increase the costs of food and insurance premiums.

From an energy perspective, the video stresses that energy efficiency and renewable energy can enhance the UK's security by reducing reliance on imported oil and gas. On an international level, climate action can decrease the risk of conflicts over resource access.

Finally, the video touches on the environmental benefits, including the preservation of natural habitats and vulnerable species like polar bears, ensuring these are protected for future generations.

The Grantham Institute's message is clear: there is still time to avoid the worst consequences of climate change, and the benefits of taking action are manifold. The institute encourages viewers to join their mailing list or follow them on social media for the latest news and commentary on climate change and the environment.

Birmingham Air Quality Crisis

Doctors and residents of Birmingham have raised serious concerns about the city's air quality, highlighting the impact of pollution on health, particularly among children and those with respiratory issues. These concerns were brought to light in a recent video interview, where the comparison was made to contaminated water to underline the severity of the issue.

"If our water came out of our taps and it was brown, everyone would be up in arms,", remarked Dr Elizabeth Sapey, Respiratory Consultant at the QE Hospital, emphasising the invisibility of air pollution yet its equally harmful effects. The interview shed light on the growing anxiety among inner city families, especially those with young children, about the air they breathe.

Parents in the city are increasingly troubled by the health implications of polluted air. One mother shared her distress over her child's severe coughing at night, which was eventually linked to air pollution. This has led to difficult decisions regarding her child's education, prioritising health and clean air over other considerations.

Health professionals in the video confirmed these fears, explaining how air pollution exacerbates respiratory conditions like asthma. "When you go into an area of high air pollution, the lungs start to become more inflamed, making you feel wheezy and it's harder to breathe," Dr Sapey stated.

The residents' frustration is compounded by what they perceive as a lack of adequate response from political leaders. Despite clear evidence linking air pollution to increased mortality rates and a higher likelihood of developing certain diseases, there appears to be a reluctance to address the issue effectively.

The effects of air pollution in Birmingham are not just theoretical but are being felt acutely by its residents. Many have reported experiencing physical symptoms due to high pollution levels. "I can taste the pollution, I can smell the pollution, and my actual breathing becomes more laboured," a resident described, illustrating the tangible impact of pollution on daily life.

This outcry from the Birmingham community underscores the urgent need for action from local authorities and policymakers. As residents argue, clean air should be a fundamental right, necessitating tough but essential decisions to safeguard public health and quality of life.

Warning: some swearing

In a unique approach to climate communication, The Independent has released a video featuring comedian Jonathan Pie, real name Tom Walker, who collaborates with Climate Science Breakthrough to demystify climate science jargon. The video, titled "Comedian Jonathan Pie simplifies professor’s climate science jargon," presents a humorous yet insightful take on the pressing issue of climate change.

Bridging the Gap Between Science and the Public

The video features Emeritus Professor of Atmospheric Physics at Imperial College London, Joanna Haigh, alongside Jonathan Pie. Haigh provides the scientific facts about climate change, which Pie then translates into layman's terms. This approach not only makes the information more accessible but also adds a touch of humour to a typically serious subject.

A Stark Reality with a Comedic Twist

Pie's interpretation of Haigh's scientific explanations brings a new perspective to the climate crisis. For instance, when Haigh mentions the unprecedented and rapid increase in CO2 levels, Pie quips, "When we got this planet, it was in pretty good Nick. I think we're about to get told off." This blend of comedy and science effectively highlights the severity of the situation while keeping the audience engaged.

Highlighting the Urgency

The video addresses various aspects of climate change, from extreme weather events to the rapid heating of the coldest regions on Earth. Pie's commentary, such as referring to the Earth going from a "fairly calm globe" to "bucking bronco mode," underscores the urgency of the situation in a manner that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Role of Humour in Climate Communication

This innovative approach by The Independent, using humour to communicate complex scientific information, is a significant step in raising public awareness about climate change. It demonstrates that humour can be an effective tool in engaging a wider audience and conveying the seriousness of environmental issues.

Conclusion

The Northants Carbon Literacy website, dedicated to promoting understanding and action on climate change, recognises the value of such creative methods in climate communication. The video featuring Jonathan Pie is not just a source of entertainment but also an important educational tool, making the critical issue of climate change more accessible and relatable to the public.

In an arresting RSA Minimate titled "Climate Change and the Future of Humanity," bestselling author David Wallace-Wells presents a grave warning about the existential threat posed by global warming. This succinct, animated feature, part of the RSA's series aimed at delivering impactful insights, underscores the urgency of immediate and collective action against climate change.

The Climate Crisis: An All-Encompassing Reality

Wallace-Wells stresses that climate change is not a distant issue but a present and all-encompassing crisis. It transcends geographical and demographic boundaries, impacting every facet of our lives, including decisions about family, job opportunities, and economic growth. This pervasive force will shape our century, necessitating a reevaluation of how we live and interact with our environment.

A Rapidly Escalating Issue

Contrary to the common belief that climate change is a gradual process, Wallace-Wells reveals a disturbing reality: over half of all fossil fuel emissions in human history have been produced in the last 25 years. This rapid escalation of damage is not a legacy issue but a current, ongoing crisis. The impacts, increasingly evident through extreme weather and natural disasters, are set to intensify unless significant action is taken.

Dire Projections

The RSA Minimate presents alarming projections if current trends persist. By the century's end, grain yields could be halved while the global population increases, leading to severe food shortages. Economically, the damages from climate change could exceed 600 trillion pounds, more than double the world's wealth today. Additionally, there is a direct link between climate and conflict, with each half-degree of warming escalating the risk of violence.

The Imperative for Urgent Action

This animation serves as a clarion call for urgent action. Wallace-Wells urges a shift from the current trajectory to avert catastrophic outcomes. The message is unequivocal: the time for denial and delay has passed, and the need for commitment and collective action is now.

Conclusion

David Wallace-Wells' RSA Minimate is an essential watch for everyone, particularly for communities like Northants Carbon Literacy, committed to promoting awareness and action in the battle against climate change. It reinforces the message that the climate crisis is not just an environmental issue but a challenge that touches every aspect of human existence.

Title: Climate Change: The Facts - A Comprehensive Overview by Sir David Attenborough

In a compelling episode titled "Climate Change: The Facts," aired by the BBC and narrated by the esteemed Sir David Attenborough, viewers are taken on an enlightening journey into the heart of the climate crisis. This full episode, available on the BBC's YouTube channel, delves deeply into the science of climate change and the solutions that could mitigate this global threat.

The Gravity of the Situation

2019 was one of the hottest years on record, and this documentary does not shy away from highlighting the severity of the situation. Sir David Attenborough, with his characteristic clarity and depth, guides us through the extreme weather conditions the world has been experiencing. From unprecedented storms to catastrophic wildfires, the evidence of climate change is laid bare for all to see.

The Science Explained

What sets this documentary apart is its commitment to explaining the science behind climate change. Interviews with some of the world’s leading climate scientists provide a foundation of understanding. They discuss the dangerous levels of climate change and what it could mean for human populations and the natural world in the future. This factual approach demystifies the topic, making it accessible to a broader audience.

A Call to Action

While the documentary paints a grim picture of the current state of our planet, it also focuses on potential solutions. It's a call to action for individuals, communities, and nations to come together to combat this global threat. The episode serves as a reminder that while the situation is dire, there is still time to make a difference.

Why Watch?

For anyone interested in understanding the reality of climate change, this documentary is a must-watch. It's not just an educational resource but a powerful motivator. Sir David Attenborough's narration adds a level of gravitas and urgency to the issue, making it impossible to ignore.

Conclusion

"Climate Change: The Facts" is more than just a documentary; it's a wake-up call to the world. As Northants Carbon Literacy advocates for awareness and action in tackling climate change, this episode serves as a valuable tool in our arsenal. It's time for us all to acknowledge the facts and start making changes, both big and small, to safeguard our planet for future generations.

Introduction

Welcome to Northants Climate Literacy, a platform dedicated to educating and informing our community about the critical aspects of climate change. In our continuous effort to raise awareness, we present an insightful video by Sky News titled "Climate Change: What Happens If The World Warms Up By 3°C?" This short but impactful video offers a stark visualization of the consequences of a 3°C increase in global temperatures, a scenario that is becoming increasingly plausible.

Video Overview

In this video, Sky News explores the cascading effects of global warming, particularly focusing on what happens if the world's temperature rises by 3°C. It highlights how a 2°C rise significantly increases the likelihood of hitting the 3°C mark, setting off a devastating spiral of climate change impacts.

Key Points from the Video

• Warmer Seas and Reduced CO2 Absorption: As the seas warm, their ability to absorb carbon dioxide diminishes, leading to more CO2 in the atmosphere and exacerbating global warming.
• The Amazon at Risk: A 2°C increase could destroy up to 40% of the Amazon rainforest, releasing huge amounts of carbon stored in the soil.
• Accelerated Carbon Release: Warmer soil leads to faster decomposition of dead vegetation, releasing more carbon.
• Plants Ceasing CO2 Absorption: At a 3°C increase, plants could stop absorbing CO2, further accelerating global warming.
• Runaway Global Warming: The cumulative effect of these changes could lead to runaway global warming, with temperatures potentially rising an additional 1 to 1.5°C by 2100.

Consequences of a 3°C Increase

• Intensified Natural Disasters: Stronger hurricanes and widespread destruction in various parts of the world.
• Water Scarcity: Loss of rivers and reservoirs, leading to severe water shortages and saltwater contamination.
• Agricultural Decline: Significant reduction in grain yields, exacerbating food scarcity.
• Rising Sea Levels: Flooding of low-lying areas, with catastrophic impacts on countries like the Netherlands.
• Historical Context: The last time Earth experienced similar temperatures, there were no continental glaciers in the northern hemisphere, and sea levels were significantly higher.

Conclusion

This video serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. As a community, Northants Climate Literacy is committed to fostering understanding and action to mitigate these potential outcomes. We encourage you to watch the video, reflect on its message, and join us in our efforts to create a sustainable future.

Introduction: The UK's journey towards a sustainable future is being fuelled by the rapid growth of low carbon energy sources. In recent years, there has been a significant shift from traditional fossil fuels to more renewable and low carbon energy options. This blog post delves into the current landscape of low carbon energy in the UK and how it shapes the nation's environmental goals.

1. Wind Power: Leading the Charge: Wind energy, both onshore and offshore, has become a cornerstone of the UK's renewable energy strategy. The UK boasts the world's largest offshore wind farm and is a global leader in offshore wind capacity. These wind farms harness the power of the wind to generate electricity without carbon emissions, playing a crucial role in reducing the UK's overall carbon footprint.

2. Solar Energy: A Bright Future: Solar power in the UK has seen exponential growth, thanks to technological advancements and cost reductions. Solar panels, installed on rooftops or in large-scale solar farms, convert sunlight directly into electricity. The increasing adoption of solar technology by households and businesses is a testament to its viability as a key player in the UK's energy mix.

3. Hydropower: Harnessing Natural Water Sources: Though a smaller contributor compared to wind and solar, hydropower remains an important part of the UK's renewable energy portfolio. Using the flow of rivers and streams, hydropower plants generate electricity with minimal impact on the environment.

4. Nuclear Power: A Low Carbon Contender: Nuclear power is a significant source of low carbon energy in the UK. It provides a substantial portion of the country's electricity with nearly zero carbon emissions during operation. The role of nuclear energy in the UK's future energy mix is a subject of ongoing debate, balancing concerns over radioactive waste with its potential to provide stable, low carbon power.

5. Biomass Energy: Organic Materials as Fuel: Biomass energy, derived from organic materials like wood, agricultural residues, and waste, contributes to the UK's renewable energy production. While not entirely carbon-neutral, it offers a reduction in net CO2 emissions compared to fossil fuels, especially when combined with carbon capture technologies.

6. The Move Towards Energy Storage and Smart Grids: As the UK increases its reliance on intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar, the importance of energy storage and smart grid technologies grows. These innovations help balance supply and demand, ensuring a stable energy supply even when the sun isn't shining or the wind isn't blowing.

Conclusion: The UK's commitment to low carbon energy is clear and growing. By embracing a diverse mix of renewable and low carbon energy sources, the country is not only reducing its environmental impact but also setting a global example in the transition to sustainable energy. The path to a greener future is illuminated by the continuing evolution and adoption of these technologies.

Introduction: In the UK, travel and transportation are among the largest contributors to CO2 emissions. As we become increasingly aware of our environmental footprint, it's essential to consider how we can reduce these emissions while still fulfilling our travel needs. This blog explores practical ways individuals and businesses in the UK can adopt greener travel habits to help combat climate change.

1. Embracing Public Transport: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce CO2 emissions is by opting for public transportation. Trains, buses, and trams are significantly more carbon-efficient per passenger compared to private vehicles. The UK's extensive public transport network offers a viable alternative for most journeys, whether it's your daily commute or a longer trip across the country.

2. Cycling and Walking: For shorter distances, walking and cycling are not only zero-emission options but also contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Many UK cities are improving their cycling infrastructure, making it safer and more convenient to choose a bike over a car.

3. Car Sharing and Ride Sharing: When using a car is unavoidable, consider car sharing or ride-sharing schemes. This approach maximises the number of people using one vehicle, which reduces the total emissions per person. Car-sharing services are increasingly available across the UK, offering a practical solution for those who only need occasional access to a car.

4. Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids represent the future of eco-friendly travel. With the UK government planning to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035, the shift towards electric is gaining momentum. EVs offer a cleaner alternative, especially when charged with renewable energy sources.

5. Eco-Driving Techniques: For those who drive, adopting eco-driving techniques can reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This includes practices like maintaining a steady speed, ensuring your tyres are properly inflated, and reducing unnecessary weight in the car.

6. Sustainable Business Travel: Businesses can make a significant impact by revising their travel policies to prioritise sustainability. This might involve incentivising employees to use public transport, investing in a fleet of electric vehicles, or using video conferencing to reduce the need for travel.

Conclusion: Reducing CO2 emissions from travel requires a collective effort from both individuals and businesses. By making more sustainable choices in our daily travel, we can contribute to a significant reduction in the UK's overall carbon footprint. It’s not just about reaching our destination; it’s about ensuring that our journey aligns with a greener, more sustainable future.