Transformation of British Columbia's Landscapes: The Impact of Climate Change

🌍 Earth's delicate balancing act is disrupted as humans release stored solar energy into the atmosphere, causing a rise in temperature and climate change.

⏰ The release of carbon dioxide and other gases from burning fossil fuels absorbs solar energy, leading to a shift in the global energy balance.

🌡️ As a result of climate change, the temperature is rising and impacting the climate in British Columbia.

🏔️ The climate in British Columbia shapes the landscape and wildlife.

🌡️ Temperatures in BC have risen significantly since 1950, affecting various communities.

🌨️ Glacial melting and changes in insect populations are evidence of climate change in BC.

🌲 Mountain pine beetle is destroying vast areas of trees.

🌡️ Warm temperatures and summer droughts are causing stress in western red cedars.

🌊 Sea levels are rising due to a combination of factors including melting polar icecaps.

🌊 Climate change is expected to increase sea levels by half a meter or more around Vancouver.

🔥 Studies of ancient climates in British Columbia show that climate changes in the region can occur rapidly over just a few decades.

🌲 9,000 years ago, British Columbia had sweeping grasslands, burned forests, and smaller lakes, indicating a warmer and drier climate than today.

🌍 Global climate models show striking changes for lake and forest ecosystems

🌡️ Scorching hot summers and winters without frost or snow could become the norm

🌲 Drought-resistant trees may thrive while some forests may disappear

⛰️ Glaciers melting and intense storms and long droughts are expected

🌊 Rising sea levels could slowly alter the shoreline

🔍 Our daily choices will shape the future

Climate change has begun the journey to a different British Columbia.