Opinion: UN’s climate change report shows planet’s future is in all of our hands

The major study said human activity is changing the climate in unprecedented and sometimes irreversible ways.

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It warned of increasingly extreme heatwaves, droughts and flooding, and a key temperature limit being broken in just over a decade.

UN chief Antonio Guterres described the findings as a 'code red for humanity'.

The report came as wildfires raged across the globe – and the World Meteorological Organization has confirmed it is checking a temperature of 48.8C recorded in Sicily on Thursday. If accepted, it would be the highest temperature on record in Europe.

Clearly we all need to do more to help the environment – right now.

I recycle lots, I've significantly cut my car usage in the last couple of years and I'm not one of those people who's always jetting off to far-flung places – but the UN's study and warnings, and recent apocalyptic-like images on the news, have made me realise that I need to up my efforts for the sake of the planet.

The World Wide Fund for Nature's website outlines 10 things we can do to help tackle climate change – take a look at www.wwf.org.uk/thingsyoucando if you, like me, want some inspiration.

I also think more needs to be done by Governments, authorities and companies around the world to help us all be more environmentally-friendly.

For example, electric vehicles currently cost too much and should be made affordable for all.

Earlier this year, an AA poll of 15,549 drivers found that 81 per cent felt that electric vehicles were too pricey.

People often tell me they would feel more inclined to use public transport if services were cheaper and more reliable.

And more grants and incentives to make our homes greener, for instance, would also help.

Scientists say a catastrophe can be avoided if the world acts fast.

The future of the planet is in all of our hands.

Well done, young people

Well done to all those who’ve collected their exam results this month.

Young people have shown so much resilience and made so many sacrifices during the pandemic, and they all deserve a humongous pat on the back.

I wish them all the best for the future.

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