Climate Change Explained
What Everyone Should Know About Its Impact in 2025
Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, affecting nearly every aspect of life on Earth. With each passing year, the consequences of a warming planet become more apparent, influencing everything from weather patterns to economic stability and public health. As we move into 2025, understanding the impact of climate change and the role we can play in mitigating its effects is more critical than ever. Here’s a look at what you need to know about climate change, its impact on our world in 2025, and what we can do to make a difference.
1. What Is Climate Change?
At its core, climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns. While Earth’s climate has naturally fluctuated over millennia, the accelerated warming we’re seeing now is primarily due to human activities. The burning of fossil fuels (such as coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation, and industrial activities release greenhouse gases—especially carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane—into the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing the planet to warm.
Since the start of the Industrial Revolution, Earth’s average temperature has increased by over 1°C, and scientists warn that further warming could have catastrophic effects on ecosystems, economies, and human health.
2. How Is Climate Change Impacting Us in 2025?
As we move into 2025, the effects of climate change are being felt more intensely and across more regions than ever before. Here are some of the key impacts that are shaping our world:
a. Extreme Weather Events
Climate change is contributing to the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. In 2025, we’re seeing more severe hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and droughts. Warmer temperatures and altered precipitation patterns lead to unpredictable weather, with some areas experiencing devastating storms while others endure record-breaking heatwaves and drought conditions.
These events disrupt communities, strain infrastructure, and lead to billions of dollars in damages every year. Just in 2023, climate-related disasters cost the global economy $280 billion, a figure projected to rise as extreme weather becomes more frequent.
b. Rising Sea Levels and Coastal Erosion
Melting glaciers and ice sheets, combined with thermal expansion of seawater, are causing sea levels to rise. In 2025, many low-lying coastal regions are already experiencing chronic flooding and erosion, with cities like Miami, New York, and Jakarta facing the possibility of large-scale relocations if sea levels continue to rise unchecked.
In Kenya, the man at the centre is a Police Officer whose home was submerged by the water behind him. This was neither flood nor water from underground but the backflow of Lake Victoria. This place was about 8 km from the lake shore. More than 3 sublocations were affected this way. There are also other areas in the same county which experienced the same.
Scientists predict that by the end of the century, sea levels could rise by as much as 1 to 2 meters, displacing millions of people, damaging property, and disrupting ecosystems.
c. Biodiversity Loss and Ecosystem Disruption
Climate change is altering natural habitats at an unprecedented rate, pushing many species to the brink of extinction. Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns affect the distribution of plants, animals, and insects, often resulting in ecosystem imbalances.
In 2025, polar bears, coral reefs, and countless other species face extinction due to warming temperatures and habitat loss. Coral reefs, often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea,” are especially vulnerable. Warming waters lead to coral bleaching, a phenomenon where corals expel the algae they rely on for nutrients. If bleaching events continue, we risk losing entire marine ecosystems and the biodiversity they support.
d. Public Health Risks
The impacts of climate change extend to human health. In 2025, rising temperatures and pollution levels are contributing to respiratory issues, allergies, and heat-related illnesses. Vector-borne diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever, are spreading to new regions as warmer temperatures make previously unsuitable areas habitable for disease-carrying insects like mosquitoes.
Additionally, extreme weather events can disrupt healthcare systems, leaving vulnerable populations—such as the elderly, children, and low-income communities—at greater risk.
3. What Can We Do to Address Climate Change in 2025?
While the situation is dire, there are steps we can take to combat climate change. Both individual actions and collective efforts are crucial to mitigating the impact and building a sustainable future.
a. Transition to Renewable Energy
Switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydropower, is one of the most effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In 2025, renewable energy is more accessible and affordable than ever, making it easier for individuals and businesses to make the switch. Governments around the world are investing in green energy infrastructure, with some countries aiming to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
b. Support Reforestation and Conservation Efforts
Forests play a vital role in absorbing CO₂ and maintaining biodiversity. Supporting reforestation projects, protecting existing forests, and reducing deforestation can help mitigate climate change. Many organizations now offer programs where individuals can contribute to tree-planting initiatives to offset their carbon footprint.
c. Adopt Sustainable Practices in Daily Life
Each person’s choices contribute to the larger fight against climate change. Simple actions—such as reducing meat consumption, cutting down on single-use plastics, and using public transportation—can make a difference. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in 2025 is also providing consumers with an eco-friendly transportation option.
d. Advocate for Policy Change
Governments play a crucial role in addressing climate change, so advocating for policy changes is essential. In 2025, many climate-conscious voters are pushing for environmental policies, from stricter emissions standards to incentives for green businesses. By supporting these initiatives, we can drive systemic change and hold corporations and governments accountable.
e. Educate and Raise Awareness
Awareness is a powerful tool. Sharing information, supporting climate education, and raising awareness within communities can help inspire others to take action. By spreading knowledge about climate change’s impact, we create a more informed and proactive society.
4. Looking Ahead: The Future of Our Planet
In 2025, we stand at a critical juncture in the fight against climate change. The choices we make today will determine the kind of world we leave for future generations. While the challenges are daunting, the growing commitment to sustainability, renewable energy, and environmental protection gives hope that we can curb the most severe consequences of climate change.
Each person’s contribution, from small lifestyle changes to larger advocacy efforts, plays a part in the solution. Together, we have the power to create a healthier, more sustainable world. By staying informed, taking action, and supporting policies that protect our environment, we can help mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure a better future for all.
This guide to understanding climate change in 2025 emphasizes the urgency of action and the hope for change, resonating with readers who are passionate about environmental preservation and looking for ways to make a difference.
About the Creator
Keep reading
More stories from Jacktone Otieno and writers in Earth and other communities.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in a Rainy City
Every morning, Claire would wake up to the sound of rain tapping on her window in Manchester. She'd lay in bed, the weight of the gray sky pressing down on her chest. It wasn’t just the rain—she was used to that, had grown up with it, the constant drizzle in the background like the city’s heartbeat. But as autumn bled into winter, something inside her shifted.
By Jacktone Otienoabout a year ago in Earth
Myanmar Junta Holds Second Phase of Election Widely Decried as a ‘Sham Exercise’
If you’ve been following Myanmar’s political turmoil, you probably heard the news: the military junta just held the second phase of its general election, and once again, critics are calling it a “sham exercise.” From the United Nations to human rights organizations, almost everyone outside the junta is dismissing this vote as a carefully orchestrated performance rather than a genuine democratic process. Let’s take a closer look at what happened, why it’s being condemned, and what this means for Myanmar’s future. A Military-Run Election in a Nation at War On 11 January 2026, voters in certain parts of Myanmar lined up at polling stations to cast their ballots in the second phase of the election. This phase covered roughly 100 townships across 12 states and regions, part of a three-phase plan that began in December 2025 and will conclude in late January. Sounds orderly enough—but here’s the catch: large areas of Myanmar are still controlled by armed opposition groups or trapped in active conflict zones. In many townships, voting didn’t even happen because it was too dangerous. For millions of citizens, the idea of participating in this election isn’t about choice—it’s about survival. So, while the junta presents this as a return to political normalcy, the reality is much messier. This vote is happening amid ongoing civil war, instability, and widespread human suffering. Who’s on the Ballot? And Who Isn’t One of the biggest issues with this election is who is allowed to run. Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD)—the party that won a landslide in the 2020 election—is banned. Suu Kyi herself remains detained on politically motivated charges. Many smaller opposition parties have also been barred from participating. Rebel groups and youth movements have refused to take part, calling the vote illegitimate. This has left the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) as the clear front-runner. In the first phase of voting in December, the USDP already secured nearly 90 of 102 contested seats, which is a strong indicator that the outcome of the overall election is practically predetermined. In short, this is less an election and more a political tool for the junta to cement power. The Junta’s Playbook For the military, these elections serve multiple purposes: Legitimacy: By holding elections, the junta hopes to claim that it has public support. Control: With opposition parties banned, the military ensures it dominates Parliament. International Image: They want the world to see a functioning democratic process—even if it’s staged. But the global community isn’t buying it. The United Nations, human rights organizations, and most Western governments have condemned the elections as neither free nor fair. Key issues include: Widespread political repression Absence of meaningful opposition Election laws that stifle dissent Unsafe conditions for voters UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews even warned that the elections “cannot and should not be recognized” internationally. Voices from the Ground: Fear, Frustration, and Exclusion For everyday citizens, voting is complicated. Many are intimidated or fear retribution if they don’t comply. Others live in conflict zones or have been displaced, making voting physically impossible. Ethnic groups and youth activists are particularly vocal about rejecting the elections. For them, the vote is a tool to marginalize minority communities and entrench military rule. Meanwhile, ordinary voters express mixed feelings—some participate out of hope for peace, others because they feel they have no choice. The reality? The election process is fragmented, forced, and disconnected from the lives of most Burmese citizens. International Reactions: Mostly Negative Around the world, reaction to Myanmar’s elections has been overwhelmingly critical. The UN, Western governments, and human rights organizations argue that the polls are designed to prop up an authoritarian regime, not reflect the will of the people. Civil society groups in Asia have also condemned the election, urging countries not to recognize the results. The junta’s international supporters, however—countries like China and Russia—may continue diplomatic engagement, making it harder to isolate the regime completely. The key takeaway? While the junta may claim legitimacy, global acceptance is far from guaranteed. Looking Ahead: What Happens Next? The final phase of voting is scheduled for 25 January 2026, and it’s expected to follow the same patterns: military dominance, restricted opposition, and contested legitimacy. If the junta consolidates power through this election, it will likely form a government that appears “elected” on paper but remains authoritarian in practice. Yet the ongoing civil war, international criticism, and domestic opposition suggest that Myanmar’s road to stability is still far away. For observers inside and outside the country, these elections are less about democracy and more about power. The military hopes to create a façade of legitimacy, but the reality on the ground tells a very different story: one of fear, division, and a population yearning for genuine representation.This blog version is more readable, flows naturally, and keeps the key facts intact, while meeting Vocal Media’s style of a narrative, accessible, and conversational article. If you want, I can also add a sidebar timeline showing all three phases of Myanmar’s 2025–26 elections to make it extra engaging for readers. It would fit perfectly for a blog format. Do you want me to do that? Conclusion Myanmar’s second-phase election may look like a step toward democracy on paper, but in reality, it’s a highly controlled, military-managed process with limited participation and credibility. With opposition voices silenced, ongoing conflict, and millions of citizens excluded, the so-called vote is widely regarded as a sham exercise. For the people of Myanmar, the future remains uncertain. While the junta may claim victory, the country’s deep political, social, and ethnic fractures mean that true democracy and stability are still a long way off. This election is a reminder that sometimes, the act of voting alone doesn’t equal democracy—especially when freedom, fairness, and choice are nowhere to be found.
By Muhammad Hassan6 days ago in Earth
Inflation Remained at 2.7% in December: High Prices Continue to Weigh on Many Americans
As Americans rang in the new year, many were relieved to see that inflation in December held steady at 2.7%, according to the latest reports. On the surface, this might seem like good news — a signal that runaway price growth is slowing. But for countless households across the country, the reality is more complicated: high prices continue to strain budgets, affecting everything from groceries to gas, rent, and beyond. The Numbers Behind the Headlines December’s 2.7% inflation rate, measured year-over-year, shows no significant change from November. This is a continuation of the trend economists have watched closely throughout 2025: after a period of intense price spikes, inflation appears to be moderating but remaining stubbornly above pre-pandemic norms. Key areas contributing to this steady inflation include: Food prices, particularly meat, dairy, and fresh produce, which have remained elevated due to supply chain challenges and global agricultural pressures. Housing costs, including rents and home prices, which continue to rise in many urban and suburban markets. Energy prices, especially gasoline and home heating, which fluctuate seasonally but have not dropped enough to ease household pressure. While 2.7% may seem manageable compared to the double-digit spikes of 2021–2022, it still outpaces wage growth for millions of Americans, meaning that in real terms, many are experiencing reduced purchasing power. How Inflation Affects Everyday Americans For many families, the impact of steady inflation is tangible. Consider this: a household spending $500 a month on groceries in 2025 might now be paying over $535 for the same items. Gasoline, which has seen seasonal swings, can quickly add dozens of dollars to monthly commuting costs. Rent, historically the largest expense for most households, has grown faster than wages in many cities. A steady 2.7% inflation rate means renters face incremental increases in living costs every month, often outpacing salary adjustments. Even seemingly small price increases ripple across budgets. Families may delay purchases, cut discretionary spending, or tap savings, which in turn affects broader consumer demand — a key driver of economic growth. The Role of the Federal Reserve and Economic Policy Inflation is not just about prices at the grocery store — it’s also shaped by monetary policy, interest rates, and government action. Throughout 2025, the Federal Reserve maintained a cautious approach, keeping interest rates relatively high to control inflation without triggering a recession. The Fed’s actions aim to balance: Slowing price growth to protect consumers’ purchasing power Avoiding a sharp economic downturn that could result from overly aggressive rate hikes Despite these efforts, economists warn that inflation’s persistence at 2.7% suggests structural pressures in the economy. Global supply chain disruptions, rising energy costs, and ongoing demand for goods and services continue to exert upward pressure on prices, making it harder for policy alone to bring relief. Inflation and Wage Growth: A Delicate Balance One of the most concerning aspects of steady inflation is its relationship with wages. For workers whose salaries haven’t kept pace with rising costs, inflation effectively reduces real income. Some sectors, like technology and healthcare, have seen modest wage gains, but many service industries — retail, hospitality, and small businesses — continue to struggle. Employees in these fields often find that even small price increases can significantly affect their quality of life, from grocery shopping to transportation and childcare expenses. What This Means for the Economy Steady inflation at 2.7% has several implications for the broader economy: Consumer Spending: When households feel the pinch, discretionary spending declines, which can slow economic growth. Investment Decisions: Businesses facing higher input costs may delay expansion or hiring, affecting job markets. Housing Market Dynamics: Rising rent and home prices continue to challenge affordability, influencing both buyers and renters. Financial Planning: Americans are increasingly turning to budgeting strategies, high-yield savings, or side income to offset higher costs. Economists stress that while inflation at this level is not catastrophic, it remains a long-term concern, especially if wages fail to keep up with price growth. Strategies for Coping with Persistent Inflation For households navigating these pressures, there are several approaches: Budget adjustments: Tracking expenses and prioritizing essential costs can help manage monthly finances. Smart shopping: Using discounts, bulk purchasing, and price comparison can reduce grocery and household costs. Energy efficiency: Lowering utility bills through energy-saving practices mitigates rising energy prices. Financial literacy: Investments, savings, and debt management become even more crucial in times of persistent inflation. While these steps cannot eliminate inflation’s impact, they provide tangible ways for Americans to protect their finances. Looking Ahead Economists predict that inflation in 2026 may continue to hover around 2–3%, barring unexpected shocks such as global conflicts, energy crises, or supply chain disruptions. While not extreme, this range continues to influence household budgets, corporate planning, and government policy decisions. For many Americans, the lesson is clear: even modest inflation can weigh heavily on day-to-day life. Staying informed, adjusting financial habits, and understanding the economic landscape remain essential for navigating a world where prices are higher than before. Steady inflation at 2.7% is a reminder that economic stability is fragile. While the numbers suggest moderation, the lived experience of millions of Americans shows that high prices are far from over, influencing decisions from grocery shopping to career planning. As the new year unfolds, households, businesses, and policymakers alike must grapple with the realities of an economy where every percentage point matters.
By Muhammad Hassan4 days ago in Earth
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.