The time to reduce global emissions is decreasing rapidly. What does that mean for Ohio?

The time to reduce global emissions is decreasing rapidly. What does that mean for Ohio?In 2015, the United Nations Climate Change Conference brought world leaders together to discuss a treaty called the Paris Agreement, that would set global environmental standards in an effort to reduce the impact of climate change. The Paris Agreement established a goal of maintaining global temperatures below 2°C, or 3.6°F, above pre-industrial levels. As emissions continue to increase, world leaders and scientists have emphasized the need to stay within 1.5°C, or 2.4°C, to prevent irreversible environmental consequences. President Donald Trump officially withdrew the United States from the deal for the second time in January of this year. He first withdrew the U.S. in 2020, with former President Joe Biden reversing that decision during his presidency. The climate clock hit its three-year mark earlier this year, indicating the time left to reduce global emissions before our planet reaches the critical temperature is dwindling. It can seem like Ohioans aren't feeling the impact of climate change, but experts say that's far from the case. Guests:- Jeff Opperman, Ph.D, Global Freshwater Lead Scientist, World Wildlife Fund- Aaron Wilson, Ph.D, State Climatologist of Ohio; Assistant Professor & Ag Weather and Climate Field Specialist, The Ohio State University Climate change and environmental advocacy in Northeast OhioAs global temperatures close in on the 1.5-degree Celsius threshold, the impact is being felt throughout Northeast Ohio. Increased rainfall, higher temperatures and harsher winters threaten Ohio wildlife, its agriculture industry and its residents. As farmers grapple with the effect these changes are having on their crops and food production, local climate activists are working with policymakers and community members to create a sustainable region built on climate resilience. Guests:- Brian Siggers, Cleveland Metro Advocacy Director, Ohio Environmental Council- Anurag Rakesh, Neuroscience and Psychology student, Case Western Reserve University; Undergraduate Climate Leader, Climate Action Network- Ame West, Co-Owner, West Orchards