Climate change is one of the greatest threats facing our planet. Here are some of the main solutions and approaches that are already being implemented globally.
In recent years, it has become clear that we must act urgently, adopting both technological and natural solutions to mitigate its effects.
Nature-Based Solutions for Action on Climate Change
Nature-based solutions are a key tool to combat climate change.
These solutions include ecosystem restoration, reforestation and biodiversity conservation, all of which focus on using natural resources to reduce CO2 in the atmosphere.
For example, suppose a municipality has a three-hectare plot of land and decides to create a biodiversity forest, choosing native species that do not require intensive irrigation.
This will allow the trees to grow and absorb carbon dioxide naturally, actively contributing to combating climate change.
Such initiatives not only improve air quality, but also help to protect local biodiversity by providing habitats for a variety of species.
Solutions that mitigate the effects of Climate Change
In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, there are solutions focused on mitigating the effects of climate change that are already evident, such as rising temperatures in cities.
Planting trees in urban areas, for example, helps to reduce heat islands, creating cooler and more pleasant environments for urban living.
However, it is important to remember that some solutions, although well-intentioned, may have limited impact. An example would be the planting of a large tree in a public square, which must spend time in a nursery before being moved.
Although the tree will provide shade and mitigate heat, the energy and materials used in its installation may equal the amount of CO2 it will absorb over its lifetime. Despite this, heat reduction in urban areas can offset this balance and be key to making cities more liveable.
Solutions that increase climate change
Not all nature-based solutions are positive if they are not implemented properly.
There are actions that, while appearing green on the surface, can have the opposite effect. A clear case in point would be the unnecessary replacement of mature trees with new ones, together with the renovation of a street pavement.
Although the new trees will absorb CO2, the energy consumed in the whole process, from felling the old ones to producing new materials, may outweigh any potential climate benefits.
This shows that solutions are not inherently good or bad, but depend on how and where they are implemented.
The key is to make informed and balanced choices, prioritising carbon footprint reduction in the process.
Clean technologies to combat climate change
In addition to natural solutions, clean technologies play a key role.
Renewable energies such as solar and wind are leading the shift towards a zero-emission economy.
These energy sources are sustainable and, unlike fossil fuels, do not emit greenhouse gases when generating electricity.
Their mass deployment is vital to reduce global dependence on fossil fuels and significantly reduce carbon emissions.
At the same time, emerging technologies such as carbon capture promise to remove CO2 directly from the atmosphere, which could be a key complement in the fight against climate change if scaled correctly.
Conclusion
Climate change is a global challenge that requires diverse and well-executed solutions. Nature-based solutions, such as reforestation and tree planting in urban environments, can be extremely effective if implemented properly.
However, it is crucial to evaluate each action to ensure that it does not unnecessarily increase carbon emissions.
At the same time, the adoption of clean technologies is essential to move towards a more sustainable future. The key to success lies in the smart combination of these strategies, harnessing the best of both worlds to make a real and lasting impact.
