Climate change is not just an abstract concept, but a reality that is increasingly affecting our lives. Ukraine, like the rest of the world, is feeling the effects of global warming. Abnormal heat in summer, when temperatures reach record highs, droughts that destroy crops and lead to forest fires, dust storms that cover entire cities, and devastating floods that inundate homes and destroy infrastructure. All of this is becoming a common occurrence and is already having tangible consequences for our country.
The National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine has published an interview with Vira Balabukh, a leading climate expert at the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Institute. Balabukh discusses the issue in detail and calls for awareness of the seriousness of the situation. She emphasises that the main cause of climate change is human activity. The burning of fossil fuels for energy, industrial emissions, deforestation – all of this leads to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and the strengthening of the greenhouse effect. As a result, we are seeing an increase in the number of extreme weather events.
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It affects all areas of life
Climate change is already having a significant impact on various areas of life in Ukraine. Agriculture is suffering from declining yields, which directly affects the welfare of the population and the country’s economy. Deteriorating soil quality and the spread of plant pests and diseases are making it increasingly difficult to grow crops. Decreased precipitation and rising temperatures are leading to water shortages, especially in the southern regions, which are affecting water supply, agriculture and industry. For example, farmers are forced to invest heavily in irrigation systems to save crops from drought.
Climate change also has a negative impact on biodiversity. Some species of plants and animals may disappear, and ecosystems become more vulnerable to diseases and pests. Forests lose their resistance to pests and fires, leading to their destruction. Extreme weather events, such as heat waves and floods, can lead to injuries, illness and death. Climate change is also contributing to the spread of infectious diseases, which poses a threat to public health. For example, an increase in the number of mosquitoes can lead to the spread of diseases such as malaria and West Nile.
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The importance of monitoring
Vira Balabukh emphasises the importance of monitoring air pollution and the reliability of climate information. She calls for state regulation in this area to ensure the objectivity of data and the effectiveness of measures to combat climate change. The expert emphasises that it is important not only to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also to adapt to new climate conditions. This means developing strategies to mitigate negative effects such as droughts, floods, and extreme temperatures. For example, creating early warning systems for natural disasters, building dams to protect against floods, and developing new varieties of crops that are resistant to drought.
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How to fight climate change
The fight against climate change requires joint efforts at all levels: from international agreements to individual action. Everyone can do their part by reducing their carbon footprint, saving energy, using environmentally friendly transport, and supporting environmental initiatives. For example, by using energy-saving light bulbs, insulating your homes, sorting your waste, and planting trees. Climate change is a serious challenge for Ukraine, but thanks to scientific research, government programmes and the conscious attitude of citizens, we can adapt to new conditions and reduce the negative impact on our lives.
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