Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is an urgent challenge that affects every corner of the globe. Since the 1800s, human activities like burning fossil fuels—coal, oil, and gas—have driven shifts in Earth’s climate. These activities release heat-trapping gases, causing global temperatures to rise.
Understanding Climate Change and Global Warming
Climate change refers to long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns. It differs from weather, which changes daily or hourly. Global warming is the long-term heating of Earth’s surface due mainly to fossil fuel use. Since the pre-industrial era, human activities have raised Earth’s average temperature by about 1°C and continue to do so rapidly.
Scientists track these changes using data from land, air, and space. They monitor rising temperatures, melting ice, rising sea levels, and more extreme weather events like heatwaves and floods.
The Urgent Need to Address Fossil Fuels
Investment managers Dr. David Ko and Mr. Richard Busellato, with decades of experience in sustainable finance, emphasize that our planet cannot handle continued fossil fuel use. Their book highlights why confronting oil, gas, and coal production is essential.
The 2021 IPCC report further confirmed the urgency of tackling climate change head-on. COP28, the 28th Conference of Parties, offers an opportunity to assess if the world is ready to act decisively against fossil fuels.
#Its4U: Bringing Climate Action to Everyone
To make climate discussions more inclusive, Dr. Ko, Mr. Busellato, and a global team launched #Its4U. This initiative streamed 12 days of live events during COP28, featuring voices from villages, cities, women, men, young, and old across continents.
They shared stories of caring for our Common Home, showing that solutions must be diverse. Despite challenges, hope and dignity shine through these stories, affirming that people worldwide are ready to face fossil fuel issues directly.
Unity and Diversity in Climate Action
At the closing ceremony, Prof. Dr. Benno Werlen stressed that no one-size-fits-all solution exists. Every community’s situation is unique, and sustainability depends on choices made locally. The event ended with certificates of participation, symbolizing a global commitment to sustainability.
How You Can Join the Movement
Climate action needs everyone. From personal choices to community efforts, each step counts. Follow #Its4U events on social media platforms and watch live broadcasts on YouTube (@rethinkingchoices). Together, we can pledge to protect our planet by reducing reliance on oil, gas, and coal.
