The Earth’s climate has changed throughout history, but many scientists agree that modern climate change happens at a faster rate and is influenced by humans burning fossil fuels. The main cause of recent climate change is the buildup of heat-trapping gases in our atmosphere, primarily carbon dioxide and methane. 

When we burn fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas for energy, we release carbon dioxide into the air. Deforestation reduces the number of trees that absorb CO2 through photosynthesis. Agriculture practices release methane from cattle and the use of fertilisers releases nitrous oxide. All of these greenhouse gases accumulate in the atmosphere and trap heat that would otherwise escape to space, causing global warming.

Carbon dioxide levels are now higher than at any time in the last 3 million years. The atmospheric concentration of CO2 has increased by around 50% since the Industrial Revolution.  Methane levels have more than doubled over the same period. As a result, the planet has warmed by over 1 degree Celsius in the last 140 years. This warming is accelerating the water cycle and causing more extreme weather like heat waves, floods, droughts, wildfires and hurricanes.

As our planet is fast reaching its tipping points in its climate system, beyond which abrupt and irreversible changes can occur. Some of the areas that are most vulnerable to these tipping points include the Arctic, the Amazon rainforest, the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, and ocean circulation patterns. Urgent action is needed to mitigate these risks and avoid catastrophic climate impacts, such as sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and ecosystem collapse.

How Climate Change Affects Our Environment, Ecosystems and Communities

Climate change is altering the natural world in profound and interlinked ways that cascade through ecosystems and ultimately impact humans. From melting ice caps to dying coral reefs to shifting seasons, the environmental effects of a warming planet are wide-ranging and complex.

Natural ecosystems

Climate change threatens natural ecosystems by disrupting the timing of critical life cycle events, changing habitat ranges, and altering species interactions. Many plants and animals are struggling to adapt to new conditions. Species that rely on ice and snow, like polar bears, are losing vital habitat as Arctic sea ice melts. A report by Nature estimated that up to 15-37% of species will be at risk of extinction if global temperatures rise by 3-4 degrees Celsius.

Agricultural productivity

Shifting rainfall patterns and more frequent extreme weather due to climate change are reducing agricultural productivity in many regions. Crop yields could fall significantly without adaptation efforts. Additionally, over a billion people rely on glacier melt for drinking water supplies, but glaciers worldwide are retreating at accelerating rates. Some areas dependent on glacier water risks facing severe shortages by mid-century.

Coastal communities

Rising seas threaten coastal communities through erosion, property damage from storm surges, and permanent inundation of low-lying areas. Between now and 2100, global sea levels are projected to rise by one to four feet – enough to affect over 150 million people globally. Floods from hurricanes and cyclones, which are projected to become more intense due to climate change, may become more frequent and damaging.

Oceans

Climate change is transforming oceans in alarming ways. Rising temperatures are making oceans warmer and more acidic, endangering marine life and valuable ecosystems. Coral reefs are bleaching and dying, fish populations are shifting, and extreme events like marine heatwaves are becoming more severe. Rising sea levels due to melting land ice and the expansion of warmer water threaten coastal communities with more flooding, erosion and saltwater intrusion. Urgent action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect vital ocean ecosystems.

Global Economies

Climate change poses serious risks to economies worldwide. The World Bank estimates that unchecked climate change could reduce global GDP by as much as 22% by 2050. Rising seas threaten coastal cities that are economic hubs, extreme weather causes billions in damages and disruptions, and agricultural productivity declines will impact food security and supply chains. Without immediate action to mitigate emissions and build resilient systems, costs associated with climate change will only grow higher, jeopardising sustainable economic growth for decades to come.

What is FUND THE PLANET doing?

Rainforests are important to the planet and the current climate situation. The Amazon alone absorbs an estimated 2 billion tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere each year, slowing the rate of climate change. But the Amazon is under threat –  it is being destroyed at an alarming rate of 1-2% per year due to deforestation, fires and logging. If the entire Amazon were to be destroyed, up to 140 billion tons of carbon could be released into the atmosphere, equivalent to 10 years of global emissions.   

This is why FUND THE PLANET’s efforts to preserve rainforests are so crucial. We are buying and fractionalizing large swathes of rainforest and Rainforest Tokens, allowing individuals and businesses a direct avenue to take part in Amazon rainforest conservation transparently.

So far FUND THE PLANET has saved 1.8 million square metres of rainforest, protecting over 100,000 trees. By owning Rainforest Tokens you are helping to outbid companies that will destroy these rainforest areas, and support the people that actively guard and protect sections of the Amazon, keeping them intact and performing their vital role of absorbing carbon.  

You can make a real difference by owning Rainforest Tokens today.  You’ll be helping ensure the Earth’s largest carbon sink remains functional for years to come, critically important in the fight against climate change. Every token you buy, every token you own is potentially saving a valuable rainforest – so take action now and protect the planet’s lungs with rainforest tokens.

How can you help?

Climate change is a global crisis, but your choices can make a difference. By supporting FUND THE PLANET, you’re not just talking about change—you’re making it happen. Visit our shop today and purchase a piece of the rainforest. Every purchase helps protect vital ecosystems, supports indigenous communities, and fights against the devastating impacts of climate change.

Act now—because the planet can’t wait.