Dr. H. İnci Ateş, Head of the Environmental Health and Environmental Risk Management Technician Program at Istanbul Atlas University Vocational School, made assessments regarding the causes, effects, and proposed solutions to climate change and global warming within the scope of "Climate Action," the theme of World Environment Day 2026.
The root cause of climate change: greenhouse gas emissions.
Dr. H. İnci Ateş, Assistant Professor, stated that the main cause of climate change and global warming is the increase in greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere, and said the following:
“The intensive use of fossil fuels, industrial activities, emissions from transportation, deforestation, and unplanned urbanization are increasing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. In addition, emissions from agricultural activities are among the important factors accelerating climate change. These emissions resulting from human activities are disrupting the world's energy balance and causing global temperatures to rise.”
Global warming is increasing extreme weather events.
Ateş stated that the effects of climate change are becoming more pronounced every year, and pointed out that global temperature increases are triggering many natural disasters.
“Rising temperatures are causing extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, storms, and wildfires to occur more frequently and with greater intensity. In addition, melting glaciers and rising sea levels are seriously threatening coastal areas and natural habitats. This process poses significant risks not only environmentally but also economically and socially.”
Agriculture, Water Resources and Public Health are at Risk.
Emphasizing that the effects of climate change are not limited to nature alone, Dr. H. İnci Ateş stated that many sectors are directly affected by this process.
“Climate change can lead to yield losses in agricultural production, increase pressure on water resources, and create new risks that threaten public health. It can also have serious consequences in terms of economic sustainability. Therefore, the effects of the climate crisis should be evaluated from a holistic perspective.”
Ecosystem conservation plays a critical role in the fight against climate change.
Ateş stated that protecting nature is of great importance in mitigating the effects of global warming, and that ecosystems need to be strengthened.
“Promoting renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions are fundamental steps in combating climate change. However, protecting forests, wetlands, and biodiversity strengthens ecosystems. Conserving natural areas will also contribute to mitigating future climate risks.”
Holistic policies are essential in the fight against climate change.
Ateş stated that the climate crisis should not be considered solely as an environmental problem, and emphasized that policymakers need to develop multifaceted solutions.
“Supporting sustainable agricultural practices, establishing effective waste management systems, expanding recycling practices, and implementing environmentally friendly urban planning are of great importance. Combating climate change requires addressing environmental, economic, and social dimensions together.”
Individual Measures Can Reduce Carbon Footprint
Dr. H. İnci Ateş, Assistant Professor, stated that simple measures individuals can take in their daily lives will also make significant contributions to the fight against climate change, and made the following assessments:
“Saving energy and water, preferring public transportation, avoiding unnecessary consumption, developing recycling habits, and preventing food waste all help reduce carbon footprint. Raising environmental awareness and promoting sustainable living habits throughout society plays a significant role in combating climate change.”
Emphasis on Shared Responsibility in Combating the Climate Crisis
Dr. H. İnci Ateş, Assistant Professor, stated that all stakeholders must act together to mitigate the effects of the climate crisis, and concluded her remarks as follows:
“Public institutions, universities, local governments, the private sector, and all segments of society must act with a shared sense of responsibility in the fight against climate change. Only through cooperation and sustainable policies can we leave a more livable world for future generations.”
