Climate Change and Mental Health: A Call to Action

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at the age of 58. With 22 years of experience as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her vast expertise enriches her current work, where she blends wellness practices with personal development. She is also the urban gardener of Nava's Zen, passionately incorporating sustainable living principles into her holistic lifestyle and business approach.

Abstract
This article explores the multifaceted impacts of climate change, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual actions, leadership accountability, and mental health repercussions. It highlights the significant role of food choices in exacerbating climate issues, particularly the wastefulness associated with leftover consumption and the environmental toll of processed foods and single-use plastics. Additionally, the article scrutinizes the effectiveness of leaders and politicians in promoting sustainable practices, questioning their commitment amidst lavish lifestyles that contradict their public advocacy.

The psychological effects of climate-related disasters, particularly flooding, are examined, illustrating the heightened anxiety and vulnerability experienced by affected individuals. By advocating for a collective responsibility towards sustainability, the article calls for comprehensive policy changes that address both the physical and mental health challenges posed by climate change. It ultimately emphasizes the urgency of fostering a culture of environmental stewardship, encouraging individuals and leaders alike to take meaningful action in the face of this global crisis.

Keywords
Climate Change, Mental Health, Food Waste, Sustainability, Environmental Policy, Leadership Accountability, Flooding, Single-Use Plastics, Collective Responsibility, Urban Gardening.

Introduction
Climate change is a reality we can no longer ignore, with its impacts becoming increasingly evident through dramatic shifts in weather patterns. From scorching heat waves to torrential downpours, these extremes have intensified, severely affecting our planet. Having personally experienced a recent flood - though minor, with only one foot of water inside and outside the house - the author believes it is time for humanity to move beyond mere words and take concrete action before Mother Earth’s fury escalates further.

This flood has profoundly impacted the author’s mental health. Each time the sky darkens and the rain begins to fall, a wave of panic washes over, fueled by the uncertainty of what might come next. This anxiety lingers, leaving the author to wonder how to prepare for the potential onslaught of rain and the accompanying relentless winds.

Methodology
This article utilizes a mixed-method approach, combining personal experiences, informal qualitative data, and secondary sources through a literature review. The author's personal observations, particularly from the recent flood experience, provide a firsthand account of the psychological and environmental impact of climate change. Informal data has also been gathered through conversations and anecdotal reports from peers and the general public about their perceptions of climate change and its growing consequences.

Additionally, an analysis of social media content has been conducted to gauge public sentiment regarding climate change. This includes how often the topic is discussed, whether there is a sense of urgency, and if it has become part of mainstream concerns or is being overlooked. As noted by Leiserowitz et al. (2020), social media serves as a vital platform for public discourse on climate issues, reflecting shifting attitudes and levels of concern.

A comprehensive literature review will be employed to support the findings in this article. Academic journals, scientific reports, and climate-related news from reputable sources will be included to contextualize the personal and public data, as well as to examine the global scope of climate change and how long the current trends have been developing. For instance, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, 2021) provides critical assessments of climate science and policy responses, highlighting the urgent need for action.

Finally, political and governmental actions, or the lack thereof, will be considered to evaluate the response to the growing climate crisis. By combining experiential data, public opinion, and a thorough literature review, this methodology aims to create a well-rounded analysis of climate change and its various drivers and impacts.

Greenhouse Gases and the Greenhouse Effect
Greenhouse gases are trapped in the Earth's atmosphere, allowing sunlight to enter but preventing some heat from escaping, effectively trapping heat and creating the greenhouse effect. This natural process warms the Earth and makes it habitable. However, human activities have significantly increased the concentration of these gases, leading to global warming (IPCC, 2021). While the natural greenhouse effect is necessary for life, the enhanced greenhouse effect caused by human actions disrupts the Earth’s climate system (Schneider et al., 2019).

Key Greenhouse Gases
Several greenhouse gases contribute to global warming, but the three most significant are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
CO2 is the primary greenhouse gas emitted through human activities, especially from the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas for energy production (Le Quéré et al., 2018). Deforestation also significantly increases CO2 levels by releasing stored carbon from trees (Houghton, 2019).

Methane (CH4)
Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas, about 25 times more effective than CO2 at trapping heat over a 100-year period, though it is present in smaller quantities (Myhre et al., 2013). It is released during the production and transport of fossil fuels, as well as from livestock farming, agriculture, and the decomposition of organic waste in landfills (IPCC, 2021).

Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
Nitrous oxide is 298 times more effective than CO2 at trapping heat over a century (Myhre et al., 2013). It is primarily emitted from agricultural activities, particularly from the use of synthetic fertilizers, as well as from industrial processes and the combustion of fossil fuels (IPCC, 2021).

Human Contributions to Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Human activities have been the primary driver of the increased concentration of greenhouse gases. Deforestation significantly contributes to CO2 emissions by reducing the Earth’s capacity to absorb carbon (Houghton, 2019). Additionally, practices in agriculture, including livestock farming, release large quantities of methane (IPCC, 2021). Industrial activities and the use of synthetic fertilizers also increase nitrous oxide emissions. Together, these human actions intensify the greenhouse effect, trapping more heat in the atmosphere and leading to global temperature rise (Schneider et al., 2019).

Deforestation: Human Expansion and Agricultural Demand
As the global population grows, so does the demand for shelter and food. These two basic needs - housing and sustenance - are frequently cited as key drivers of deforestation. However, the reality goes beyond necessity. The push for larger, more luxurious homes with modern amenities has intensified, especially in affluent societies. Small or medium-sized houses are often deemed insufficient, with many aspiring for bigger, high-tech homes as symbols of wealth and success (Meyer et al., 2020; Vestergaard & Fenger, 2022). In some cases, individuals own multiple homes, which adds to the strain on land and natural resources.

Modern homes are not only larger but also more energy-dependent, requiring significant amounts of electricity to power their advanced systems. Much of this electricity -  about 61% globally - is generated from fossil fuels. Specifically, coal accounts for 36% of global electricity generation, natural gas contributes roughly 23%, and oil about 2% (IEA, 2020).

Deforestation for Agriculture and Modern Farming Practices
Deforestation is also driven by the need to accommodate agricultural expansion, as humanity seeks to produce enough food for the growing population (Tilman et al., 2011). Traditional agricultural practices once worked in harmony with nature, relying on crop rotation and polyculture. In contrast, modern agriculture, driven by the demand for increased food production and profit, relies heavily on monoculture, the cultivation of a single crop over large areas. The widespread use of synthetic fertilizers and chemical treatments to produce visually appealing fruits and vegetables further harms the environment.

Moreover, modern agriculture’s reliance on heavy machinery reduces labor costs but increases dependence on fossil fuels, exacerbating greenhouse gas emissions.

Chemical Additives in Food and Climate Impact
Chemical additives in food products are widespread, with artificial flavoring, coloring, and synthetic ingredients becoming common in many items. In response to the growing demand for vegetarianism and plant-based diets, products like mock meats often contain not only artificial flavors and colors but also various synthetic ingredients to enhance taste and appearance. Similarly, processed foods such as burgers, sausages, and nuggets are heavily laden with these additives, contributing to climate change in indirect yet significant ways (Zhang et al., 2020; Stuckler & Nestle, 2012).

The production of synthetic ingredients, such as preservatives and emulsifiers, involves complex chemical processes that require large amounts of energy, often derived from fossil fuels. This energy-intensive manufacturing results in increased emissions. For instance, the creation of synthetic dyes, commonly used in candies and beverages, relies on petrochemicals - a direct byproduct of fossil fuel extraction (Pérez-Rodríguez et al., 2021). Thus, the artificial additives found in many processed foods are tied to the fossil fuel industry, a major contributor to climate change. 

Processed foods also promote a high-energy food system, where significantly more energy is expended in producing, processing, and distributing these items compared to fresh or whole foods. The various stages of production, packaging, and transport involved in processed foods significantly increase their carbon footprint, amplifying their environmental impact and contributing to the rise in greenhouse gas emissions.

Chemical Ingredients in Skin Care Products
Skin care products, including those for face, body, and hair, often contain synthetic ingredients and chemicals, which are marketed as enhancing beauty and accelerating skin repair. Hair products such as shampoos, conditioners, serums, and colorants also fall into this category. While these products promise benefits like nutrient transport and quick fixes, the environmental impact of their production and chemical composition is significant (Koo, Lee, & Lee, 2021).

Even products labeled as containing natural ingredients raise questions. How much of these natural components truly make it into the final product, and what hidden ingredients are used to preserve them? Additionally, there are concerns regarding the sourcing and cultivation of these natural ingredients, which may involve unsustainable practices. In many cases, marketing claims of natural purity may serve as gimmicks, masking the true environmental costs of production and the hidden synthetic additives (Prat & Pardigon, 2013).

Urbanization and Its Impact
As the years pass, urbanization and development continue to drive the construction of high-rise and status buildings, often viewed as symbols of national success. These towering structures require vast amounts of energy for heating, cooling, lighting, elevators, and other systems, leading to increased carbon emissions. When this energy is sourced from fossil fuels, the carbon footprint rises significantly. Furthermore, construction materials like steel, glass, and cement contribute approximately 8% of global CO2 emissions (Dodman, 2020).

Additional factors, such as high water usage and reliance on air conditioning, further exacerbate the issue. As development persists, land scarcity has led to the reclamation of land from the sea for high-rise buildings, including condominiums, making these structures significant contributors to climate change (Newman & Kenworthy, 1989).

Urban Transport and Its Impact
The number of cars has skyrocketed as part of urban living, transforming city life into a landscape filled with constant vrooms and zooms. Owning a car is no longer a luxury; it has become a necessity, with many households now owning multiple vehicles to accommodate family members' commuting needs (Dahl & Hennings, 2019).

However, car and vehicle emissions contribute to burning fossil fuels (gasoline and diesel), releasing CO2 - a major greenhouse gas driving global warming. Traffic congestion, an inescapable reality for urbanites, forces cars to idle for long periods, increasing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (Bai & Chen, 2018). The situation worsens with air pollution, as vehicle emissions release not only CO2 but also nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, degrading air quality and indirectly contributing to climate change.

Waste Disposal in Urban Areas
Urban waste disposal practices are a growing concern. Many urbanites, caught up in their fast-paced lifestyles, neglect responsible waste disposal, driven by the "no time" syndrome (Pérez et al., 2019). Trash is often discarded carelessly, with little regard for proper disposal methods, such as securing or tying up bags before dumping them into bins. In some cases, even educated individuals dispose of waste irresponsibly, tossing items out of their cars or dumping them in random locations for convenience.

This careless behavior is evident in clogged drains, waste piling up in back alleys, and trash being abandoned on streets, leading to water pollution during rainstorms (Zhao & Chen, 2021). As these waste products rot and accumulate, they release harmful emissions and pollutants, further exacerbating the climate change crisis.

Plastic Dependency: A Long Road Ahead
The movement to reduce plastic usage has made strides but still faces significant challenges. Despite growing awareness and campaigns promoting alternatives, urbanites remain heavily dependent on plastic for everyday tasks (Ritchie & Roser, 2018). From plastic bags for groceries to packaging of all kinds of products, the reliance on plastic persists. Food containers, household items like chopping boards and utensils, and even drink straws continue to be made from plastic.

The issue extends beyond use - disposal practices remain problematic. Carelessly discarded plastic often ends up littering the environment, carried away by wind and contributing to pollution (Jambeck et al., 2015). Though efforts to say no to plastic are increasing, achieving widespread reduction and sustainable alternatives is still a distant goal.

The Human Factor: Greed, Growth, and Climate Neglect
The primary driver of climate change isn’t just industry or fossil fuels - it's human behavior. Despite the rising chorus advocating for sustainable development and a greener future, the reality on the ground remains largely unchanged (Pérez & Barlow, 2019). Human attitudes, often rooted in greed and the relentless pursuit of success, continue to fuel environmental degradation. This drive for more - more wealth, bigger houses, luxury cars - leaves little room for reflecting on how these desires contribute to the slow destruction of our planet.

In the fast-paced rhythm of urban life, the focus is on accumulating wealth and prestige, with sustainability often being an afterthought. Many urbanites are engrossed in upgrading their homes with the latest fittings and technologies, which heavily rely on energy consumption. Cemented houses, air-conditioned rooms, glass paneling, and sealed-off drainage systems are not just trends but symbols of success (Hirsch, 2020). Unfortunately, they also represent a significant part of the problem.

Rather than considering eco-friendly designs or materials, it’s often about what looks prestigious and modern. Urban settings, where convenience and style trump environmental concerns, have become hotspots for climate change contributors. From energy-draining home appliances to materials that have high carbon footprints, the lifestyle choices of the wealthy often come at a steep cost to the environment. The question remains - will humans choose a future that balances their desires with the needs of the planet, or will the pursuit of material success continue to eclipse the urgent call for climate action?

The Missed Opportunity: Urban Gardening in the City
Amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life, city dwellers often overlook the benefits of bringing nature into their own surroundings. While they may appreciate scenic landscapes on the outskirts, the idea of growing their own food remains foreign to most (Wakefield et al., 2007). Instead, urbanites tend to rely heavily on supermarkets and high-end grocers, where produce is glossy and perfect, but often comes at an environmental cost. Many are unaware that the shiny, appealing vegetables they purchase may have been treated with chemicals, prioritizing appearance over health and sustainability.

Urban gardening offers a solution, but the perception persists that growing food in the city is impractical or unnecessary (Rogers & O’Neill, 2019). The convenience of buying pre-packaged, aesthetically pleasing produce overshadows the idea of cultivating healthier, more natural options in their own space. Organic vegetables - those that may have imperfections like holes or blemishes - are often ignored in favor of those that look flawless, despite the potential harm from chemical treatments.

Moreover, high-tech grocery stores and luxury supermarkets, which consume vast amounts of energy to maintain their pristine appearance and operations, contribute to the higher costs of these products. Many urbanites mistakenly associate higher prices with better quality, not realizing that the inflated cost is often driven by the energy consumption required to run these establishments, rather than the quality of the produce itself. Embracing urban gardening could shift this mindset, allowing city dwellers to reconnect with nature, reduce their carbon footprint, and access fresher, more sustainable food.

Profit Over Planet: The Business Dilemma
In the relentless pursuit of profit, businesses prioritize financial growth over environmental sustainability. The concept of "sustainable business" is often limited to maintaining profitability, with little regard for the long-term health of the planet (Maitland & Mitchell, 2018). Climate concerns are frequently sidelined in favor of cheaper, synthetic ingredients or inferior materials that may contribute to environmental degradation. This profit-driven mindset results in a trade-off, where economic gains come at the expense of ecological well-being.

The food industry is a prime example, where synthetic chemicals and additives are used to meet consumer demand for affordable, long-lasting products (Hawkes, 2006). Despite the growing awareness of health and environmental issues, businesses continue to choose cost-cutting measures over ethical production. This trend is not only confined to food; it extends to industries like construction, fashion, and consumer goods, where low-quality, unsustainable materials are used to maximize profit margins.

The drive for profit often outweighs considerations of ethics and moral responsibility. Businesses, in their quest to satisfy shareholders and remain competitive, may compromise on values that protect the environment. Short-term gains are pursued with little regard for the long-term impact on climate change, highlighting a troubling disconnect between economic goals and the urgent need for ecological preservation.

The Throwaway Culture and Climate Change
The habit of discarding items rather than recycling or reusing them has become a significant contributor to environmental degradation. Instead of exploring ways to recycle or repurpose materials, the convenience of buying new products has taken over (Geyer, Jambeck, & Law, 2017). This throwaway culture not only generates excessive waste but also leads to the consumption of resources at an unsustainable rate.

A large portion of this waste, especially plastic and non-biodegradable materials, takes decades or even centuries to decompose (Thompson et al., 2009). During this time, these materials release harmful chemicals into the environment, polluting land, air, and water. The challenge of waste disposal becomes even more complex as landfill spaces dwindle, and the pollution from these sites contributes significantly to climate change.

Moreover, the energy used to manufacture and transport new products adds to the environmental footprint. By discarding items that could be recycled or repurposed, we increase the demand for raw materials, driving further deforestation, mining, and fossil fuel consumption - all of which accelerate climate erosion. This cycle of consumption and disposal underscores the urgent need for a shift toward sustainable practices like recycling, upcycling, and mindful consumption.

Food Choices and Climate Impact
The mindset surrounding food consumption plays a significant role in climate change. People still believe that leftover food is unfit for consumption, leading to the disposal of perfectly edible meals (Garrone, Melacini, & Perego, 2014). This waste not only contributes to pollution when not disposed of properly but also highlights a lack of mindfulness in eating habits. Instead of creatively transforming leftovers into new dishes, many choose to throw them away.

In some regions, such as parts of Malaysia, there is a misconception that freezing food is hazardous to health, ignoring its potential as a sustainable practice (Wong, 2021). The culture of eating out further exacerbates the issue. Fast food and restaurant menus often feature meat and dairy products, which have a higher carbon footprint compared to plant-based options. The high demand for these items drives unsustainable farming practices, contributing to environmental degradation (Poore & Nemecek, 2018).

Additionally, eating out frequently involves consuming highly processed foods that require significant energy for production, further increasing greenhouse gas emissions from their manufacturing processes. The rise of food delivery services also adds to the problem, as more vehicles on the road lead to increased carbon emissions associated with delivering meals.

Moreover, single-use plastics dominate food packaging, with many items wrapped in containers and bags that often end up in landfills and oceans. These materials take hundreds of years to decompose, worsening pollution. Dining out can also result in substantial food waste, as portion sizes are often larger than necessary, leading to uneaten food being discarded. This food waste in landfills generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

The preference for convenience over sustainability is evident in the tendency to choose ready-made meals and processed foods instead of considering locally sourced or organic options. Additionally, there remains a lack of awareness about the importance of carrying reusable containers when taking food away, which perpetuates dependence on plastic and styrofoam for food packaging. Addressing these attitudes and practices is crucial for reducing the environmental impact of our food choices.

Leaders and Politicians: Leading by Example?
It's questionable whether leaders and politicians are truly setting an example in curbing climate change or if they are contributing to it. The convenience of big cars and the display of lavish homes often associated with their status raises concerns about whether they practice what they preach. Although climate change is championed on a global stage, there’s limited transparency about the actual steps taken by these figures to promote sustainable living (Graham, 2020).

For instance, policies that support sustainable energy solutions like solar power are either unclear or too costly for the average person to implement. As the author is committed to reducing energy consumption through solar power, she finds it illogical that such vital initiatives remain financially inaccessible. Similarly, her efforts in urban gardening and rainwater harvesting - both key steps in sustainability - lack institutional support or even recognition.

Unless there’s encouragement and incentives for individuals who take such initiatives, most urbanites remain indifferent. Instead of taking small steps to mitigate climate change, many continue to complain about worsening weather without understanding their role in contributing to it.

Shared Responsibility: The Human Call to Action
Climate change is a collective responsibility that transcends geographical boundaries; it affects every individual, no matter where they reside. Each human action, whether conscious or not, contributes to the ongoing crisis - like a ball thrown that ricochets from one person to another, amplifying the effects of climate change (Mastrorillo et al., 2016). This cycle of impact extends beyond borders, spreading across continents and oceans, affecting humanity as a whole.

Now is the time for everyone to take meaningful action, whether through small daily changes or larger commitments. Ignoring the consequences will only result in harsher repercussions. The most glaring manifestation of climate change is the increasingly erratic and severe weather patterns we witness today.

Political leaders and advocates for sustainability must recognize that true sustainability goes beyond profit margins; it requires a commitment to practices like reducing paper usage, recycling materials, and repurposing food waste. The ongoing deforestation to meet the demands of a growing population often serves corporate interests more than ecological needs. It’s an unfortunate irony that while the world grapples with scarcity, human greed fuels the desire for excess.

Imagine a world where people prioritize the health of our planet over the allure of wealth. If we shift our focus from material gain to environmental stewardship, we can work together to mitigate the effects of climate change. By taking a step back, reflecting on our values, and adopting a mindset of sufficiency, we can nurture a healthier planet. In doing so, we allow Mother Earth to flourish and, in return, she will bestow upon us the abundance and well-being we all desire.

The Mental Toll of Flooding: A Call for Action

Having recently experienced a flood, the author realized how deeply it impacts mental health. Watching the water rise helplessly, with no idea what to do or what to save, leaves a person paralyzed. As decisions need to be made - what to save first, where belongings were placed - the mind becomes clouded, and it feels as though everything comes to a standstill.

In such hopeless situations, there’s little that can be done. The rain pours on, a grim reminder of climate change. Sitting in darkness, with fingers crossed, the author and her husband had switched off the main electrical board to prevent accidents, but despite precautions, the water - already a foot deep - had seeped into the switches, causing damage.

When the water finally receded, the hard work of cleaning began. The author and her husband worked until almost 1 a.m., exhausted, only to resume the next day. It was heartbreaking to see the damage: cherished belongings ruined, and the emotional toll began to take shape. Questions kept spinning in the author's mind - why did this happen? How could it happen? What caused it?

As the rainy season lingers, each time the skies darken, a sense of dread returns. It's not just the physical damage that weighs heavily; it’s the mental toll - phobias and panic attacks triggered by the sight of rain. The aftermath is daunting - cupboards that won’t close, peeling walls, damaged cabinets and appliances. The financial strain for repairs only adds to the stress, and without mental resilience, it could easily lead to a breakdown.

With so much conversation around mental health, it's time for leaders and policymakers to recognize the psychological impact of climate-related disasters like floods. Research highlights that disasters significantly strain community resilience, affecting the collective mental and emotional capacity to cope with such events (Norris et al., 2008). It’s not just about cleaning up the physical damage - it's about protecting the mental well-being of those affected. The question remains: will decision-makers take meaningful action to address climate change, or will they continue to stand by as communities like the author's suffer the consequences?

Conclusion
As we confront the escalating challenges of climate change, it becomes evident that our collective responsibility transcends borders and individual actions. This article has explored the intricate connections between food choices, the role of leaders, the mental toll of climate-related disasters, and the urgent need for a shared commitment to sustainability. Each section underscores the critical importance of mindfulness in our consumption habits, as well as the need for leaders to exemplify the changes they advocate.

The reality of climate change is not just an environmental issue; it profoundly affects mental health, with floods and extreme weather instilling a deep sense of vulnerability and anxiety. As such, policymakers must recognize and address the psychological ramifications alongside physical restoration efforts. A more holistic approach is necessary - one that not only focuses on restoring infrastructure but also prioritizes the mental well-being of affected communities.

As individuals, we have the power to initiate change through our daily choices, from reducing food waste to advocating for sustainable practices within our communities. Likewise, leaders must rise to the occasion, providing transparent policies that foster a culture of sustainability and incentivize eco-friendly practices. By shifting our focus from profit-driven motives to environmental stewardship, we can work together towards a healthier planet.

In essence, the path forward requires a unified commitment to action, understanding that every small effort contributes to a larger movement. The time for change is now; let us embrace our shared responsibility to combat climate change and nurture the planet for future generations. Together, we can cultivate resilience, foster sustainability, and ensure that our collective future is one filled with hope and abundance.

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