Introduction
Climate change and environmental challenges are strongly influenced by large systems and corporate decisions. Individual actions alone will not solve them.
But individual choices still matter. When many people make similar decisions, they influence demand, expectations, and long-term change.
This course is not about predicting the end of the world. It is about understanding how environmental changes affect animals, ecosystems, and people living today - and how we can support a healthy and stable world.
As you move through the course, you will notice that many of these topics are connected. Changes in one area often influence others. Understanding these connections is key to seeing the bigger picture.
Wetlands have declined by almost 50 % relative to pre-industrial times due to warming and human impacts. (IPCC)
Ocean acidity has increased by around 30 % since pre-industrial times due to rising atmospheric CO₂ levels. (European environment agency)
Scientists estimate that 70–90% of coral reefs could disappear at 1.5 °C of global warming. (IPCC)