How climate change affects our daily lives – facts that are little talked about
How climate change affects our daily lives – facts that are little talked about
Climate change is a topic that is increasingly featured in the media and public debates. Often, however, conversations focus on the global consequences, such as melting glaciers or rising sea levels, and the everyday impact on our lives is overlooked. Meanwhile, the effects of the climate crisis are already being felt here and now – in our health, in our wallets and even in the quality of our sleep. Here are the less obvious facts that show how climate change is affecting our everyday lives.
Weather that is ruining our health
Rising global temperatures are leading to increasingly frequent heatwaves, which are not only disruptive but also deadly. An example is the 2022 heatwave in Europe, during which more than 60,000 people died. Hot weather increases the risk of heat stroke, dehydration and exacerbation of cardiovascular disease. What’s more, night-time temperatures also rise, resulting in sleep disturbances and more fatigue during the day.
It is not only high temperatures that pose a threat. Increased humidity and more frequent heavy rainfall encourage the growth of mould in buildings, which negatively affects respiratory health. In addition, air pollution, exacerbated by climate change, is leading to an increase in cases of asthma and other lung diseases.
More expensive food – the hidden effect of climate change
Climate change is affecting agriculture in ways that many of us do not notice until we notice higher prices in the shops. Droughts, floods and extreme weather events are destroying crops, reducing their availability and raising food prices. In 2023, Spain – one of the main suppliers of fruit and vegetables to Europe – experienced one of the worst droughts in history, which directly translated into an increase of more than 100% in the price of olive oil.
It is not only vegetables and fruit that are becoming more expensive. Droughts in the US and South America are reducing soya and maize production, which is affecting meat and dairy prices – livestock feed is also becoming more expensive. As a result, climate change is affecting not only farmers, but every one of us, making everyday purchases an increasing expense.
Climate and our psyche – an invisible stressor
Have you noticed that you increasingly feel overwhelmed by news of natural disasters? The concept of ‘climate anxiety’ (eco-anxiety) is increasingly being diagnosed, especially among younger generations. Worries about the future of the planet and the lives of future generations cause chronic stress, which can lead to depression and sleep problems.
Research shows that more and more people are experiencing a sense of powerlessness in the face of global environmental problems. This phenomenon is not just a psychological problem – it also affects our daily choices. Some people are giving up having children for fear of an uncertain future, while others are changing their consumption habits, cutting back on flights or opting for greener products.
New diseases and health risks
Climate change is leading to the migration of disease-carrying insects and animals. Mosquitoes, which carry malaria and dengue fever, are starting to appear in regions where they were previously absent – including Europe. Rising temperatures cause bacteria and viruses to multiply faster, increasing the risk of food poisoning and epidemics.
An example is the increase in Lyme disease cases in Europe – warm winters mean that ticks remain active for a longer part of the year. In Scandinavian countries, which previously had relatively low incidence rates, Lyme disease cases have increased by up to 400% in the last 20 years.
The future of cities – do we need to prepare for the new realities?
Climate change is felt particularly strongly in cities. The urban heat island effect means that concrete surfaces heat up and do not dissipate heat as effectively as natural green spaces. On hot days, temperatures in cities can be as much as 7-10°C higher than in rural areas.
In response to these challenges, some cities are introducing innovative solutions. In Paris, so-called cool streets are being developed – specially designed pavements and carriageways that reflect sunlight and help lower the temperature. In Singapore, the concept of a ‘garden city’ is being developed, where buildings are covered with vegetation to help cool urban spaces naturally.
How can we prepare?
While the effects of climate change may seem overwhelming, there are steps each of us can take to prepare for it and reduce its impact. Investing in energy-efficient technologies, supporting local food producers, creating green spaces in cities or educating others about climate change are steps that can help us better cope with the new reality.
The One More Tree Foundation is committed to reforestation and ecosystem restoration as one way to combat the effects of the climate crisis. Planting trees improves air quality, mitigates the urban heat island effect and supports biodiversity. Collective action matters – the more people involved in green initiatives, the greater the chance of mitigating the effects of climate change.
Climate change is not just abstract graphs and reports from scientists – it is a reality that we feel every day. From health to food prices to our wellbeing, the effects of global warming are already part of our lives. The key is awareness and action – the more we know, the better we can prepare and make changes on an individual and societal level.
