Climate change has become a pressing global issue, affecting everyday life and the environment. The impact is clearly visible in the increase in the frequency and intensity of natural disasters. The rise in global average temperature, which has reached 1.1 degrees Celsius since the pre-industrial era, is exacerbating extreme events such as floods, droughts and storms. This phenomenon not only damages ecosystems, but also threatens human life, especially in the most vulnerable countries. One of the biggest impacts of climate change is rising sea levels. With the melting of ice in Greenland and Antarctica, many coastal cities are experiencing seawater intrusion. Cities such as Jakarta, Bangkok and Miami are at high risk of more severe flooding, forcing people to adapt, relocate or even lose their homes. Adaptation is key, with green infrastructure and monitoring technology offering some solutions. In addition, extreme weather such as heat waves and tropical storms are becoming more frequent. Storm intensity, based on NASA research, is predicted to increase by 5-10% every decade. These storms not only result in huge economic losses but also profound psychological impacts on the affected communities. Mitigation actions through effective environmental policies and public awareness are needed to overcome this problem. Drought as a consequence of climate change also threatens global food security. Regions dependent on agriculture have seen crop yields fall, leading to food crises and price spikes. Developing countries, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, are the most affected, with millions of people at risk of famine. On the other hand, natural disasters such as forest fires are increasing with higher temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns. Forest fires not only shrink natural habitats but also emit carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, exacerbating the greenhouse effect. Studies show that the Amazon forest, known as the lungs of the world, is experiencing widespread decline due to more frequent fires, thus having a far greater impact than just local fires. Community participation in efforts to deal with climate change and natural disasters is very important. Local initiatives that involve communities in planning and resource management can increase resilience to disasters. Education related to climate change must be integrated into the education curriculum to create a more aware and responsible generation. Support from the government and private sector is also crucial in accelerating the transition to renewable energy. Investments in green technologies such as solar and wind power can help reduce dependence on fossil fuels that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Strong international collaboration, such as the Paris Agreement, plays an important role in achieving global emissions reduction targets. Finally, monitoring and evaluating the impacts of climate change is important in formulating effective mitigation strategies. Accurate data helps governments and non-government organizations design policies that are responsive to the needs of society in facing the ever-growing threat of disasters. With an integrated approach, we can build a safer and more sustainable future.
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