Climate Change in Idaho
- Jul 2
- 3 min read
Ara Dark
6th Grade
Hawthorne Elementary, Boise
What is Climate Change?
Climate change is the process of the world getting warmer due to CO2 and other greenhouse gasses getting trapped in the atmosphere. Climate change is a natural process that happens over a long period of time. But humans have caused climate change to increase at a dangerous rate. If you want to figure out how to help with climate change, you've come to the right place.
Climate change in Idaho: Drought
Idaho is in a drought. Though it may not seem like it. Some people say we have plenty of water, but Idaho faces its warmest winter since 1934 and lowest snowpack since the 1980s (KTVB). The flow of water during the summer is predicted to be 50% less by mid century than it is today. This is a problem because a lot of Idaho's income relies on agriculture, and if crops and cattle aren't able to grow, then Idaho doesn't get as much money. Droughts also cause major wildfire risks.
Climate change in Idaho: Wildfires
The annual hot, dry and windy days are getting worse and more frequent all over the nation Climate Central
Wild fires can be caused by hot and dry days, dry soil, a lack of water, or sometimes, human caused. In the article ”What Climate Change Means for Idaho", the EPA predicts that changing the climate will likely double the area burned in the Northwest by forest fires during an average year. Trees without water can get infected by pests or diseases easier, which causes them to be more susceptible to catching on fire. Burning trees release CO2, which gets trapped in the atmosphere and again heats up the planet, causing a never ending cycle. But there are ways we can reduce the CO2 being released into the atmosphere .
What can our state government do to reduce climate change?
One thing our government can do to reduce climate change is to make the largest greenhouse gas power plants pay for the CO2 they release, this is called a Carbon Tax. Carbon Taxes encourage businesses to emit less CO2. Another thing our government can do is make companies buy permits for the greenhouse gasses they produce. Companies and businesses can pay for a permit to release an amount of toxins, but cannot go over. This is another way our government can make factories pay for the damage they do, as well as limit the amount of emissions.
What can citizens do about climate change?
There are several things the government can do. But what can you do about climate change? For starters, car emissions can make a big impact, especially since over half the population today owns a car. Try and turn your car off if you're sitting there for more than a minute, that way, you save money, gas, and CO2. There are also a plethora of small things you can do to help, such as simply recycling or walking, biking, or taking the bus to school/work. I pledge to keep our air and planet clean by recycling, not idling and being mindful of how I can help make a positive impact, rather than a negative one. I hope that after reading my article, you too, will help in reducing climate change.
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