With the recent plastic pollution media frenzy, it seems everyone is now discussing ways to utilise biodegradable alternatives. Although plastic pollution is on the rise, and more current than ever- carbon emissions remain the largest contributor to our global warming. So the real question is; are carbon emissions on the decline?
Unfortunately, it appears that one of the biggest rises in atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide are expected to occur during 2019, predicted by the Met Office.
The Earth relies on natural resources, such as forests to soak up large amounts of CO2 produced by human activities. However, in recent years when the tropical Pacific regions are warmer as they were this year, trees and plants grow less subsequently smaller amounts of the gas are absorbed. Consequently, scientists say 2019 will see a much greater carbon dioxide rise than 2018.
In particular, living close to Heathrow Airport, carbon dioxide levels in our air, are considerably higher than in other areas of the UK. High carbon dioxide leads to a range of undesirable consequences; such as asthma problems, and high pollution levels.
Statistically speaking, when compared to other sources, the carbon cost of flying is particularly high. The act of flying one person from London to New York and back generates roughly the same carbon dioxide emissions as the average EU citizen does heating their home over an entire year.
In fact, Heathrow’s plans for a third runway would produce as much carbon as the whole of Portugal, according to Friends of the Earth.
From using reusable water bottles to opting to cycle to work/school one day a week, there are a plethora of actions we as a community can take. Therefore, we must, in our own, smaller way; be more environmentally conscientious so that we can contribute to lowering emissions.
