Today is World Environment Day. Celebrated each year on June 5, this is an occasion for people across the globe to advocate for environmental protection and raise awareness about issues pertaining to the health of this beautiful planet we call home.
Right now, a firm dedication to protecting our environment — and educating ourselves about what exactly that means — is more important than ever. Just last week, United States President Donald Trump announced his decision to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris climate accord, an agreement signed by 195 countries with the joint purpose of reducing the risks and impacts of climate change.
To honor World Environment Day, we urge our readers to set aside a little extra time to refresh their knowledge on environmental topics and to share resources with loved ones who have questions about scientific issues like climate change. Below are a few suggestions for recommended reading.
4 Things to Know About the Paris Climate Agreement
A science reporter for Vox.com explains the Paris climate agreement with four points and just 500 words.
The Paris Agreement & The Agreement We Must Make to Protect Life on Earth
A representative from the Jane Goodall Institute explains why Trump’s decision to pull out of the Paris agreement could be harmful. She writes: “A withdrawal from these commitments would not only endanger billions of lives, but will also portray the United States as detrimental to the progress and safety of international communities, environments, and species.”
Trump Says Goodbye to the Paris Climate Agreement. Here’s What That Means.
In this piece from The Washington Post, a researcher for CCAPS (Climate Change and African Political Stability) analyzes some of the political factors leading up to Trump’s decision, and explains what the withdrawal means for the U.S. and other countries.
Short Answers to Hard Questions About Climate Change
In this helpful FAQ, a science reporter for The New York Times provides quick answers to often-asked questions about climate change.
And for those concerned about the outlook of environmental protection, we recommend this article from The Washington Post, which relays former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg’s announcement to pledge $15 million of his own money to help the UN’s efforts to tackle climate change. While (very) few of us can make an impact at Bloomberg’s level, his announcement is a reminder that we as individuals can all do more for our planet. For ideas, check out this list from Greatist.com on 40 Unexpected Ways You Can Help The Environment Right Now.
Readers, do you have additional suggestions? We’d love to hear them — just leave a link in the comment section below.
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