With nearly 18 million acres of land in Australia being burned and over a million animals dying the question has to be asked, what’s happening to our planet? Many have been sharing the devastating videos across social media platforms, attempting to raise awareness but how can the actual problem be solved?
The fires started in September due to a combination high temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius and strong winds. Despite the recent rainfall, temperatures are only expected to soar again and there is a possibility of a ‘mega blaze’ if the fires in Victoria and New South Wales merge together.
It’s not just people’s homes at danger. It’s also animals. Some animals, such as koalas and kangaroos are directly killed by the fire through being incinerated or by choking on smoke. It has been estimated that nearly a third of all koalas have died. Even if they are rescued, their injuries are usually too severe to survive. It is very possible some of these animals are heading towards extinction due to the damaging effects of the bushfires.
Many high-profile celebrities, including Chris Hemsworth, Kylie Minogue, Pink and Selena Gomez, have donated large sums of money to contribute to saving Australia. Although it’s not possible for everyone to donate millions of pounds, there are several organisations which can help solve the threatening issues of the fires, including Australian Red Cross, GIVIT and Salvation Army Australia.
What is happening to Australia is a clear consequence of climate change. With many influential people raising awareness about climate change, including Greta Thunberg, it is impossible to ignore the effect it is having on the world. There are simple things we can all do to save this world such as using less plastic (e.g. using paper straws), consume less meat and use public transport instead of cars.
Together we can prevent climate change. The bushfires in Australia are just one example of the true impact of climate change and there will be many more to come if we do not start caring for our planet. Do you really want to see your planet extinct in ten years?
