Words by Tess Becker
The main cause of the climate crisis is industries burning fossil fuels and emitting greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The gases, released from combustion processes such as plastic production, enter the atmosphere where they trap heat from the sun’s rays, which in turn causes global warming.
Globally, there have been some efforts to cut these emissions, including a pledge world leaders made in the UN-headed Paris Agreement.
In the US, the Biden administration recently announced plans to continue its reduction of hydrofluorocarbons, aiming to cut use of the greenhouse gases by almost half starting next year.
Hydrofluorocarbon is a category of greenhouse gases used for refrigeration and air-conditioning mostly, as well as a few other functions.
“By phasing down the use of these super pollutants, we can both address climate change and support domestic manufacturing -- a win-win,” Sen. Tom Carper, D-Del., said in a statement.
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Women Invested to Save Earth Fund. This organization helps support underrepresented and underfunded Black, indigenous, and women of color-led organizations across the world. Find out more and support them here.
Collective Sun. They help nonprofits get outfitted with solar power capabilities. Check them out here.
Florida Bicycle Association. An organization that helps mobilize people and promote greener living and safer biking. Find out more.
