The 2010s were packed with pivotal moments. The decade kicked off just after the world grappled with a huge financial crisis and wrapped up with the impeachment of a U.S. president. It was a time that witnessed the rapid rise of social media, stirring mass protests worldwide. A small streaming company emerged, revolutionizing how we enjoy music. Among these events, health scares transformed into epidemics, and the world cheered when the orchestrator of the September 11 attacks was finally located and killed.
But more was happening beyond the headlines of culture, politics, and entertainment. The 2010s spotlighted the pressing issue of climate change, a problem long in the making due to human activity. Multiple dramatic climate events served as a wake-up call, spurring global discussions and actions to mitigate climate change. Hence, the 2010s were also marked by a significant shift towards sustainability. Efforts to combat climate issues saw a boost, led chiefly by grassroots movements, especially in countries like the United States, where local initiatives were more prominent than national efforts. The Paris Agreement set a global framework for addressing climate change. There was also a noticeable surge in renewable energy adoption, reflecting a bigger push for environmental sustainability. Meanwhile, young activists worldwide rallied together, igniting a global movement dedicated to safeguarding our planet’s future.
Let’s journey through the environmental developments and challenges of the 2010s, reflecting on the lessons learned and the path to a more sustainable future.
Key Takeaways
- The 2010s were an eventful decade, witnessing numerous events happening quickly across politics, culture, entertainment, world events, and beyond.
- The decade also witnessed several extreme weather events and alarming milestones that underscored the urgency of tackling climate change.
- This era also marked a significant shift towards sustainability, seeing a noticeable surge in renewable energy adoption, new policies for addressing climate change, and growth in environmental sustainability awareness among the youth.
2010s: A Period That Tugged Us Toward Opposite Poles
The 2010s were characterized by a dichotomy in global environmental trends, pulling humanity in opposing directions. On one hand, there was a notable surge in environmental consciousness and activism, driven by growing awareness of the urgent need to address climate change. Initiatives like Earth Day played a role in galvanizing millions worldwide, fostering a sense of community and collective action. From the bustling streets of Washington, D.C., to the remote villages of Ethiopia, individuals joined hands to raise awareness and advocate for sustainability.
Concurrently, however, the decade also witnessed escalating climate consequences, underscoring the gravity of the environmental crisis. Record-breaking temperatures, extreme weather events, and melting polar ice caps were stark reminders of the urgent need for action. Biodiversity loss continued at an alarming rate, with species extinction accelerating due to habitat destruction and human encroachment.
Despite these challenges, the decade saw significant strides in renewable energy and sustainable initiatives. The proliferation of solar installations and other green energy projects marked a shift towards more environmentally conscious practices. Governments, businesses, and individuals alike began to recognize the importance of transitioning towards renewable energy sources to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Put simply, the 2010s were a period of both hope and apprehension, characterized by the duality of heightened environmental consciousness and escalating climate impacts.
Environmental Developments and Challenges
From hurricanes and unprecedented wildfires to the Paris Climate Accords and Green New Deal, below are some environmental events, achievements, and challenges that created tension and defined the 2010s.
2010
Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
On April 20, 2010, the Deepwater Horizon oil rig was drilling off the coast of Louisiana in the Gulf of Mexico when a methane gas leak caused it to explode in a mess of flames visible from 40 miles away. The explosion killed 11 people working on the scene.
Two days later, the fire raged on as the rig platform sank, leaving 200 million gallons of oil gushing into the Gulf. 4.9 million barrels full of oil spread over thousands of miles of coastal habitat from Louisiana to Florida, making Deepwater Horizon the largest marine oil spill in history. Deepwater killed over 8,000 animals; among them were fish, dolphins, turtles, and over one million birds.
It took many years for any company to assume responsibility for this disaster. In 2014, US District Court Judge Carl Barbier ruled that BP deserved 67% of the blame, asserting that the company was guilty of “gross negligence and willful misconduct” under the Clean Water Act (CWA). BP estimated that it owed victims $7.8 billion, but it is nearly impossible to calculate the value lost from irreversible environmental damage appropriately.
We have posted a reflection on the impact and implications of Deepwater 10 years later. Needless to say, the decade didn’t open up with much hope for environmental action.
Maryland Establishes B-Corps
Maryland was the first state to establish benefit corporations or B-Corps. The rise of B-Corps in the 2010s correlates with consumers increasingly valuing businesses that prioritize social good. Nearly 7 in 10 millennials actively consider a business’s values when making purchasing decisions.
Designation as a B-Corps requires businesses to consider their decisions’ environmental and social repercussions. It also protects corporate boards from legal jeopardy from prioritizing purpose over financial profit. It’s unfortunate that they need protections to justify caring for the Earth, but at least someone’s doing it. Such an initiative is an excellent opportunity to continue to champion new business models that value compassion and sustainability.
2011
EPA Vetoes Permit for Spruce Mine
The EPA made a significant decision by vetoing the water permit for the Spruce No. 1 mountaintop removal site in West Virginia. This move is hailed as a considerable triumph for environmentalists, who have long advocated against the detrimental impacts of such mining operations on ecosystems and water quality.
The proposal for the coal mine was a primary environmental concern, as it threatened to destroy 2,300 acres of forest and bury nearly seven miles of streams. In its thorough review, the EPA considered over 50,000 public comments on the Spruce No. 1 mine before issuing its veto, highlighting the significant public interest and concern over this issue. The decision to veto the mine was primarily based on the severe impacts on water quality, including potential fish kills caused by pollution from the mining activities.
Residents in these coal-field areas have vocally opposed the Spruce Mine plan since it was first proposed in 1998. Their persistent fight against this project underscores the deep-rooted conflict between industrial development and environmental conservation, alongside the community’s resilience in striving for a healthier living environment.
However, this action ignited a fierce backlash from the coal industry and its supporters. It expressed its dissent through strong and sometimes violent rhetoric, seeing this as a threat to jobs, economic interests, and the industry. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between environmental conservation efforts and industrial economic concerns, underscoring the complex challenge of balancing ecological sustainability with economic needs.
Ecuadorian Court Slaps Fine on Chevron Oil
In a landmark decision, an Ecuadorian court imposed an $8.2 billion fine on Chevron Oil Co. for its role in contaminating vast areas of the Lago Agrio region in the upper Amazon. This significant legal ruling spotlighted the environmental damage inflicted on one of the planet’s most biodiverse regions.
The pollution harmed the local ecosystems and affected indigenous communities and other residents who depend on these lands and waterways for their livelihoods and daily living. The court’s decision represents a critical moment in the ongoing struggle to hold large corporations accountable for environmental degradation. It serves as a stark reminder of the long-term consequences that unchecked industrial activities can have on the environment and human health.
Fukushima Disaster
On March 11, 2011, Japan experienced a jolt. As one tectonic plate slipped under another, a magnitude 9.0 undersea megathrust earthquake resulted, the fourth most powerful earthquake since record-keeping began around 1900. The quake generated 40-meter tsunami waves and was so forceful that it increased Earth’s rotational speed.
Tsunami waves slammed into the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, causing the worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl. Much like Chernobyl, later investigations found that human error was the primary cause of the accident. The earthquake and ensuing nuclear accident had direct impacts on Japan and worldwide nuclear development, ending the 60-year optimism that nuclear power would be a core component of the global strategy to reduce carbon emissions and provide abundant energy.
In response, Germany accelerated its plans to close its remaining nuclear reactors and phase the rest out by 2022.
The following video, created by the Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), provides a detailed account of the events that unfolded at the Fukushima Daiichi plant in March 2011.
2012
Keystone XL Pipeline Protests
The Keystone pipeline became a household name when a broad coalition of activists rallied in opposition to a plan for its expansion. The plan, the fourth phase of the pipeline’s construction, is known as Keystone XL.
In his 2008 election bid, President Obama shared his desire to lead “the generation that finally frees America from the tyranny of oil.” When Obama was running for reelection in 2012, activists endeavored to hold him accountable for this campaign promise. About 50,000 protesters attended a rally to pressure President Obama to reject the permit for Keystone XL.
In 2015, Obama officially rejected the permit for the pipeline, stating that the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline was at odds with the United States’ “global leadership on climate change.” He also expressed concern over how both political parties politicized the fight. For Democrats, rejecting the pipeline was necessary to justify serious action to avoid the climate crisis. Whereas Republicans fought for the pipeline’s construction, touting the need for energy independence. For many, the pipeline remains an enduring symbol of the battle for the future of our planet.
Image Source: https://www.nrdc.org/stories/what-keystone-xl-pipeline#map
President Trump undermined years of protest in his first two weeks in office and approved the pipeline’s permit. Construction in Montana began soon after until a recent court decision halted its progress with mandates to assess the impacts of the Endangered Species Act.
When President Biden assumed office, he fulfilled a campaign promise by canceling the cross-border permit for the Keystone XL pipeline. This action effectively sealed the fate of the controversial project. By then, the Keystone XL pipeline was already facing many challenges: an administration opposed to its completion, a series of legal hurdles, falling oil prices, increasingly evident climate change effects, and vocal opposition from climate activists both locally and globally. These activists, determined not to ignore the project’s environmental risks, played a crucial role in rallying against it.
In June 2021, TC Energy, the company behind the Keystone XL pipeline, formally abandoned its plans to build it. This decision marked the end of a fossil fuel project that had threatened waterways, communities, and the global climate for over ten years. Terminating the Keystone XL pipeline became a significant victory for environmentalists, signaling a shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly energy sources. It also underscored the growing influence of climate activism in shaping energy policies and projects worldwide.
Extensive and Rapid Melting of Greenland’s Ice Sheet
The U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) delivered a startling report about Greenland’s ice sheet. According to their findings, this crucial ice mass experienced its most extensive and rapid melting period in three decades since the era of satellite observations commenced.
Scientists observed a dramatic event where, over just four days, an astonishing 97 percent of the ice sheet’s surface started to melt. This occurrence was described as unprecedented, highlighting an alarming acceleration in the ice melt patterns that could have significant implications for global sea levels and climate change trends. This situation underscores the urgency of addressing global warming to mitigate further environmental impacts.
Hurricane Sandy
October in the Northeast typically means leaf peeping, apple picking, and sweater season. In late October 2012, things weren’t so pleasant as Hurricane Sandy approached the Eastern Seaboard. When the tropical storm first hit southern New Jersey on October 29th, forecasters expected mild impacts.
But Sandy was far from mild. It tore through 24 states and all of the Eastern Seaboard. The so-called superstorm killed at least 147 people in the U.S., cut power from eight million homes and businesses, and caused over $70 billion in damages, making it the second most costly tropical cyclone after Hurricane Katrina.
Warming waters increase the likelihood of tropical storms, magnifying the risk for areas like the Northeast, where tens of millions of people live perilously close to the water’s edge. Additionally, rising sea levels exacerbate the surges and flooding caused by major storms, compounding the vulnerability to damage. The coastal United States must continue to build its resilience and invest in mitigation and adaptation strategies to prepare for the inevitability of future disasters.
2013
Northern China Air Pollution
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) unveiled a stark disparity in life expectancy between northern and southern China residents, directly linked to air pollution. In the north, where coal is extensively used for heating, air pollution has profoundly impacted public health.
The unrestricted burning of coal has led to a significant reduction in life expectancy for about 500 million residents of this region. The findings suggest that these individuals have collectively lost more than 2.5 billion life years, translating to an average loss of five years per person. This contrasts sharply with southern China, where coal is not prevalently used for heating, and residents do not face the same level of exposure to air pollution. This research highlights the severe consequences of environmental pollutants on human health and underscores the urgent need for cleaner energy solutions to prevent similar outcomes elsewhere.
IPCC’s Fifth Assessment Report
In its fifth assessment report, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) made a compelling statement about human impact on climate change. The report concluded that climate scientists are 95 percent certain that human activities have been the dominant cause of the observed global warming. Although this conclusion aligns with findings from previous assessments, what sets this one apart is the significant improvement in the research and data underpinning climate science.
This enhanced clarity and confidence stem from advancements in technology, better climate models, and an increased volume of research, all of which have provided a deeper understanding of how human actions—such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes—influence the planet’s climate system.
IPPC’s complete fifth assessment report can be downloaded here.
Minamata Convention on Mercury
On October 10, 2013, a significant stride was made in the global fight against mercury pollution. The Minamata Convention on mercury poisoning was signed by 140 nations, though notably not by the United States. This treaty marked a concerted effort to manage mercury’s use and international trade to decrease its environmental and health impacts.
Named after the Japanese city that experienced devastating effects from mercury pollution, the convention highlights a tragic chapter in environmental history. Minamata city suffered through a public health crisis in the 1950s and 60s, with thousands of residents falling ill or dying due to mercury-contaminated seafood. This tragedy, known as “Minamata disease,” was one of the earliest alarms for robust environmental protection measures worldwide. Despite around 65,000 individuals seeking assistance for afflictions related to this poisoning, only 3,000 were officially acknowledged. However, Japan’s Supreme Court ruling in April 2013 promised to broaden recognition for sufferers.
Demands for an exhaustive government investigation into the spread of Minamata disease have been overlooked. The lengthy delay—over 55 years—for Japan’s acknowledgment of the full impacts of Minamata disease and the international community’s response underscores a critical weakness in environmental governance. Nonetheless, establishing the Minamata Convention represents a pivotal point of progress. As noted by Environmental Health News, while it took decades to arrive at this juncture, the convention signifies a growing commitment toward safeguarding human health and the environment from the hazardous effects of mercury pollution.
2014
Elk River Chemical Spill
Image Source: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319936168_Risk_Uncertainty_and_Institutional_Failure_in_the_2014_West_Virginia_Chemical_Spill
In Charleston, West Virginia, a distressing incident unfolded when methyl cyclohexane methanol (MCHM) spilled into the Elk River, leading to an immediate and severe crisis. This chemical spill, one of the most severe in recent US history, forced a shutdown of the water supplies for 300,000 people, highlighting the vulnerability of public resources to industrial accidents. The event caused widespread alarm among residents and sent shock waves through West Virginia’s politically pro-industry environment, known for its lenient regulatory stance towards businesses.
The Elk River chemical spill prompted some introspection within the state’s political circles and the general public about the need for stringent regulatory measures to protect the environment and public health. However, despite the magnitude of the disaster and its palpable impact on the community, the aftermath saw only minimal changes in protective measures for West Virginians. The event highlighted a broader issue within specific political and industrial frameworks—a hesitation to implement stricter environmental protections despite explicit threats. The Elk River spill is a critical reminder of prioritizing safety and environmental stewardship over industrial convenience and lax regulation.
In 2016, residents affected by the disaster reached a settlement deal with Eastman Chemical Co., one of the companies linked to the spill. This agreement marked a crucial step towards addressing some of the grievances and hardships faced by the local communities whose water supply was contaminated, impacting their daily lives and health.
The settlement demonstrated a form of accountability and offered compensation to those who suffered due to the spill. However, many argue that no amount of money can fully rectify the damage caused. It also highlighted the legal avenues for citizens to seek redress against large corporations responsible for environmental pollution.
People’s Climate March
The People’s Climate March in New York City stands out as a monumental event in the history of environmental activism. Drawing over 400,000 participants, it was one of the largest rallies demanding action on climate change. This massive demonstration occurred as people from diverse backgrounds unified, showing a collective concern for the planet’s future and urging leaders to address the growing threat of climate change.
This unprecedented turnout showcased the growing public awareness and concern over environmental issues and sent a strong message to policymakers about the urgency for immediate and effective action. The March became a vibrant platform for voices demanding sustainable practices, renewable energy adoption, and more robust climate policies. By bringing together such many individuals, the event highlighted the power of collective action and community engagement in driving social and political change concerning the global climate crisis.
COP 20 in Lima, Peru
The international climate talks held during COP 20 in Lima, Peru, concluded with outcomes that disheartened many. The negotiations, aimed at forging a global agreement to combat climate change, resulted in weak voluntary commitments to reduce carbon emissions. These outcomes were mainly seen as a letdown for poorer countries, which are often the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change yet the least equipped to deal with its impacts.
The agreements reached in Lima were criticized for needing more ambition and enforceability, sparking concerns about the world’s collective ability to address the climate crisis effectively. For many, the Lima conference was a missed opportunity to make decisive progress in the fight against global warming, particularly in supporting those most at risk from its consequences.
2015
Senator Inhofe Tries to Start a Snowball Fight in Congress
Washington, D.C. experienced a cold wave in late February 2015. On February 26th, Senator James Inhofe, Environment and Public Works Committee Chair, sensed a perfect opportunity to publicize his skepticism of climate science. The Senate’s most prominent climate change denier had a platform to promote his misinformed views.
Inhofe carried a snowball wrapped in a plastic bag to the floor of the U.S. Senate, where he argued that climate change is a hoax.
“You know what this is?’” asked Inhofe. “It’s a snowball from outside here. So it’s very, very cold out. Very unseasonable.”
Upon concluding his remarks, Inhofe threw his snowball to a congressional aide.
The presence of snow and cold weather doesn’t negate the reality of climate change. Despite this, the topic often sees misuse in political debates, with some representatives dismissing the overwhelming scientific evidence of climate warming. This misrepresentation highlights a concerning trend where political interests overshadow factual understanding and constituents’ well-being. As a congressman, Inhofe has received over two million dollars in donations from fossil fuel interests.
Paris Climate Accords
The Paris Agreement brought nations together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to keep warming below 2°C and as close as possible to 1.5oC. In an unprecedented process, each country submitted a personal goal to reduce emissions, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs). However, the UN Emissions Gap report highlights how the current NDC commitments are grossly insufficient to keep warming below 2°C.
In 2017, shortly after taking office, President Trump made the controversial decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement. He cited his skepticism towards the commitment of other countries to fulfill their obligations under the pact as a critical reason for this move. However, the landscape shifted dramatically in 2021 when the United States rejoined the Paris Agreement under President Biden’s administration. This decision marked a significant turn in U.S. climate policy, signaling a renewed commitment to international efforts to combat climate change.
2016
Paris Climate Pact
The Paris Climate Pact, a landmark global agreement, was signed by 175 countries, symbolizing an unprecedented international consensus on combating climate change. It officially came into force on November 4th, marking a significant global commitment to the planet’s future. The pact sets ambitious goals to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and promote sustainability for future generations.
Key objectives of the agreement include:
- Limiting the global average temperature increase to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to restrict further the temperature rise to 1.5°C, recognizing that achieving this would considerably diminish the risks and impacts associated with climate change.
- Enhancing the capability of countries to adapt to the adverse effects of climate change. This involves fostering climate resilience and promoting the development of low greenhouse gas emissions without compromising food production.
- Aligning financial flows with a transition towards low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development pathways.
Massive Coral Bleaching in the Northern Great Barrier Reef
In October, reports emerged about extensive bleaching affecting Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s natural wonders and home to many marine life. This phenomenon was later confirmed, marking a significant environmental event.
Coral bleaching occurs when corals, stressed by changes in conditions such as temperature, light, or nutrients, expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, causing the coral to turn white. Bleaching weakens corals, making them more susceptible to disease and leading to repercussions for the marine ecosystems that depend on them.
Image Source: https://www.science.org/content/article/survey-confirms-worst-ever-coral-bleaching-great-barrier-reef
The Great Barrier Reef’s bleaching event is a visible indicator of the broader impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. Rising sea temperatures play a significant role in bleaching events, highlighting the urgent need for global actions to mitigate climate change and protect vital marine habitats. The health of the Great Barrier Reef is crucial for its biodiversity and the economic and cultural value it holds for Australia.
Wildlife Populations Down by 60%
A sobering report released by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in October 2016 revealed that global wildlife populations had experienced a staggering decline of 58% between 1970 and 2012. This comprehensive analysis, which gathered data on more than 14,200 populations spanning 3,700 species of mammals, fish, amphibians, birds, and reptiles, painted a grim picture of the state of biodiversity on our planet.
The report warned that if the declining trend persisted, the world stood to lose more than two-thirds of its wildlife by 2020—a forecast with dire implications for ecosystems worldwide. Particularly hard hit were species inhabiting lakes, rivers, and wetlands; these freshwater dwellers witnessed an 81% reduction in their populations over the four decades covered by the study.
This rapid decrease in wildlife numbers is primarily attributed to escalating human populations, intensifying pressure on natural habitats through expansion and degradation. Additionally, hunting and climate change have significantly contributed to the plight faced by various species.
Image Source: https://www.worldwildlife.org/pages/living-planet-report-2016
2017
Rising Sea Surface Temperatures
Two independent studies–one from the University of California, Berkeley, and another from the Japan Meteorological Agency–shed light on the trajectory of global warming, particularly concerning sea surface temperatures. While previous research suggested a slowdown in the rate of warming when comparing recent decades to the period from the 1950s to the 1990s, these studies present a different conclusion.
After accounting for differences in how sea surface temperatures were recorded over time, researchers found that the rate of warming during the first 15 years of the 21st century was virtually identical to that observed between 1950 and 1999. This revelation is significant, challenging earlier notions of a warming hiatus and underscoring the consistency of climate change’s impact on our planet’s oceans.
G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany
During the G20 Summit held in Hamburg, Germany, the United States found itself in a position of isolation due to its stance on climate change, particularly following its decision to exit the Paris Agreement. German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed strong disapproval of the U.S. withdrawal from the international climate pact, highlighting a pronounced divergence in approaches to global warming among the world’s leading economies.
Merkel stated that she “deplored” the U.S. exit and made it clear she disagreed with British Prime Minister Theresa May’s optimism that the U.S. might reconsider its position and rejoin the agreement in the future.
This moment underscored the growing divide between the United States and other G20 member states over environmental policy and international cooperation on combating climate change. The isolation of the U.S. at such a high-profile global forum reflected broader concerns about the potential impact of its withdrawal on global efforts to address climate change and international relations more generally.
Hurricanes Harvey and Maria
On August 25, Hurricane Harvey struck Texas with devastating force, marking one of the most catastrophic natural disasters in recent U.S. history. The hurricane caused widespread destruction, leading to the loss of 108 lives and resulting in damages estimated at $155 billion. Harvey’s impact was felt across a vast area, with extensive flooding and damage to homes, infrastructure, and communities.
Just a few weeks later, on September 19, Hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico, further adding to the season’s catastrophic toll. The hurricane’s precise death toll remains uncertain, with estimates ranging between 112 and 4,000+ fatalities. The damage from Maria exceeded $93 billion, leaving a long-lasting mark on the island. Puerto Rico’s infrastructure, including its power grid and housing, suffered severe damage, leading to prolonged recovery efforts and highlighting the challenges of disaster preparedness and response in the face of increasingly powerful storms.
Both hurricanes highlighted the urgency for enhanced resilience and adaptation strategies to safeguard communities against the escalating threats posed by climate change.
2018
Pollution: The Biggest Environmental Cause of Disease and Premature Death
According to a report by the British medical journal The Lancet, pollution is one of the most severe health crises globally and is responsible for an extensive toll on human life. It has been identified as the leading environmental cause of disease and premature death across the world. Remarkably, in 2015, diseases attributable to pollution were estimated to have caused around 9 million premature deaths. This staggering figure accounts for 16% of all deaths worldwide, showcasing that the impact of pollution is three times greater than that of AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria combined. When compared to fatalities caused by wars and other forms of violence, pollution-related deaths are 15 times higher.
The burden of pollution is particularly oppressive in countries most severely impacted, where over a quarter of all deaths can be attributed to pollution-related diseases.
Young People Speak Out
Greta Thunberg, a 16-year-old Swedish climate activist, sparked a global movement when she posted a photo of herself protesting outside the Swedish Parliament to Twitter. She skipped school on Fridays to push the government to respond more strongly to climate change. Soon after, millions of students followed suit, skipping school and walking out of class in a response that came to be known as Fridays for Future.
Greta found an ally in the Sunrise Movement, a group of young activists committed to elevating climate change to the front of the political agenda in the United States.
“Maybe you are simply not mature enough to tell it like it is,” Thunberg tells the French National Assembly in Paris. “Even that burden you leave to us children,” she added
Brazil Elects Jair Bolsonaro
On October 28, 2018, Brazil witnessed a significant political shift with the election of President Jair Bolsonaro, known for his far-right and anti-environmental stance. Bolsonaro’s election raised concerns among environmentalists globally due to his agenda, which prominently featured undermining the protection of the Amazon rainforest. The Amazon, often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” plays a crucial role in global climate regulation by absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide.
Additionally, Bolsonaro expressed intentions to exclude international environmental groups from operating in Brazil. Organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), known for their conservation efforts, faced the prospect of restrictions under his leadership. This move signaled a potential setback for collaborative international efforts to preserve one of the world’s most vital ecological resources. The election of Bolsonaro was viewed with apprehension by those concerned with environmental protection and the sustainable management of natural resources.
Under President Jair Bolsonaro’s administration, the fears harbored by environmentalists quickly materialized: the Amazon Rainforest experienced a dramatic escalation in deforestation rates, reaching record highs. The Brazilian leader’s pro-development stance and leniency towards agricultural expansion and mining activities exacerbated threats to the rainforest, often considered Earth’s most significant natural carbon sink and biodiversity hotspot.
The Council on Foreign Relations and Vox have published reports detailing the impact of Bolsonaro’s administration on the Amazon rainforest.
2019
Introduction of Green New Deal
The Green New Deal (GND) resolution, introduced by Senator Edward Markey and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, is more than a climate policy platform. In addition to decarbonizing the electricity sector in the next ten years (by reshaping the electricity, agriculture, and transportation sectors), the plan emphasizes creating clean energy jobs and delivering fair wages, along with several other critical elements of a progressive agenda, such as universal healthcare/Medicare for All.
In the words of one of the authors of the Green New Deal, Rhianna Gunn-Wright, it addresses the “twin crises of climate change and income inequality.” Where the Green New Deal lacks in policy detail, it doubles down on its strong commitment to reducing racial and economic inequity by investing in communities that have historically borne the brunt of the damages of the fossil fuel economy.
Nathaniel Rich, author of “Losing Earth,” eloquently captures the importance of the Green New Deal in a New York Times Op-Ed:
“The Green New Deal may be short on policy detail, but it does establish the foundation of a moral doctrine: The conviction that there can be no civil society without a stable climate, that the power of American workers has eroded even faster than our coastlines, that inequality increases with every fraction of a degree of warming. It declares that the working class, women, people of color, indigenous communities, migrants, people with disabilities and future generations are no less deserving of a survivable future than the wealthiest members of the wealthiest nation.”
This is a message that resonates strongly with the American public. The timing of the resolution for a Green New Deal’s release and the associated enthusiasm brought climate change to the forefront of the Democratic Primary debates. CNN even held its first-ever climate town hall, 7 hours dedicated to grilling the candidates on their climate agendas. The crowd of Democratic candidates also included 5 Green New Deal co-sponsors (Sanders, Warren, Gillibrand, Harris, and Klobuchar) and 15 supporters.
Accelerating Rates of Species Extinction Rates
The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) announced that one million animal and plant species are on the brink of extinction, primarily due to human activities. This alarming report highlights the severe impact of humans on the planet’s biodiversity, signaling an urgent call to action to mitigate this crisis.
Robert Watson, who chaired the study, emphasized the critical nature of the situation with a poignant message: “If we want to leave a world for our children and grandchildren that has not been destroyed by human activity, we need to act now.” His words call for immediate and collective efforts to preserve the Earth’s natural heritage.
A Year of Fires
Unfortunately, 2019 was the year of putting out fires, or at least trying to. Bushfires in Australia raged for several months, burning over 12 million acres of land and destroying 1,000 homes, making them the most destructive fires since 1974.
Across the Pacific, California wildfires displaced thousands of people from their homes, burned hundreds of thousands of acres, and left California’s economy reeling with $80 billion in losses. To prevent further fire damage, Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), a local utility company, turned out the lights on 3 million people for nearly a week. This is the same utility responsible for the faulty transmission line that caused the 2018 Camp Fire, California’s deadliest and most destructive fire.
Meanwhile, the Amazon experienced a whopping 80,000 forest fires in 2019. That’s 20,000 more than the previous year. Many of the fires were caused by intentional deforestation and land clearing, which Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro emboldened by opening up the rainforest to industrial and agricultural use.
The Amazon is essential to the fight against climate change because it absorbs about 5% of the world’s annual carbon emissions. It remains unclear if enough is being done to protect the vital rainforest and ensure communities worldwide are resilient and prepared to adapt to fires.
What the 2010s Teach Us About the Climate Situation
The 2010s have proven to be pivotal in expanding our understanding of the relationship between human activities and the environment. This decade witnessed significant progress in global efforts to address climate change, highlighting the impact of collective action on shaping a sustainable future.
One of the standout achievements was the Paris Agreement in 2015, a decisive moment in international politics that brought almost 200 countries together to commit to limiting global warming and tackling climate change more aggressively. This agreement highlighted the global consensus on the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for coordinated action.
Simultaneously, the decade saw the rise of influential grassroots movements, with Fridays for Future being amongst the most notable. Spearheaded by youth worldwide, these movements brought fresh energy and urgency to the climate conversation, proving that societal pressure can influence political and corporate agendas on climate action. The activism seen throughout the 2010s showed the power of community mobilization and the critical role of younger generations in steering the climate dialogue.
Despite notable progress, the 2010s were marred by persistent environmental challenges. Climate change emerged as a defining issue, with record-breaking temperatures, extreme weather events, and melting ice caps underscoring the urgency of the crisis. Biodiversity loss continued unabated, with species extinction rates reaching alarming levels. Deforestation, pollution, and habitat destruction threatened fragile ecosystems, exacerbating the climate emergency. Moreover, disparities in environmental impact were stark, with marginalized communities bearing the brunt of environmental degradation.
Conclusion
As we reflect on a decade of environmental upheaval and resilience, one thing remains abundantly clear: the future of our planet hinges on the choices we make today. This makes it imperative that we choose wisely and act decisively in favor of our planet’s well-being.
The 2010s have been instructive, offering valuable insights into how concerted efforts across all levels of society can pave the way for significant environmental progress. By heeding the decade’s lessons and prioritizing sustainability in all facets of life, there is potential for transformative change. Policy initiatives and grassroots movements alike play pivotal roles in this journey, illustrating the power of combined action in steering us toward sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Since 2010, there’s been a surge in environmental awareness, with millions participating in Earth Day events worldwide.
The 2010s saw a rise in green energy projects, climate activism, and landmark legislations and agreements like the Paris Agreement.
Challenges included biodiversity loss, extreme weather events, and disparities in environmental impact among communities.
We can build a more sustainable future by prioritizing collective action, informed policymaking, and technological innovation.
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