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Today is 14th March. A day that marks the birthday of Albert Einstein and the death anniversary of another big name: Stephen Hawking. These two brilliant individuals may have had different eras of their prime, but both significantly impacted the world of science. They also led extraordinary lives, but many instances can be compared that show how they were very different yet very similar simultaneously.
Here is a pictorial comparison of the lives of two great minds!
Einstein was born on 14 March 1879 in the Kingdom of Württemberg, German Empire, and Hawking (R) came into this world on 8 January 1942 in Oxford, England, United Kingdom.At 16, Einstein had a life-changing moment when he was introduced to a children’s science series by Aaron Bernstein, Naturwissenschaftliche Volksbucher, which made him more interested in science. Hawking, on the other hand, studied natural sciences at Oxford, and after receiving his B.A. in 1962, he went to Cambridge to study physics. At 21, he was diagnosed with ALS.Einstein took a very different approach to Physics. His most important works include Special Theory of Relativity (1905), General Theory of Relativity (1916), Investigations on Theory of Brownian Movement (1926), and The Evolution of Physics (1938). Hawking extensively studied quantum gravity and quantum mechanics. He showed that black holes emit radiation, known as Hawking radiation.Einstein’s equation of energy and matter revolutionized the concepts of physics. His discovery of the photoelectric effect and his theory of general relativity were groundbreaking. Hawking gained international prominence for the first time in 1988 with the publication of ‘A Brief History of Time.’ It was meant to be a simplified version of cosmology for the masses and became an instant bestseller.Einstein received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921 “for his services to Theoretical Physics, and especially for his discovery of the law of the photoelectric effect.” Hawking also received many accolades and awards throughout his life, including the Albert Einstein Award and the Hughes Medal from the Royal Society.Albert Einstein was married twice: in 1903 to Mileva Maric and in 1919 to Elsa Einstein. It is debated that he could never have become Einstein without his first wife and college sweetheart, Mileva Maric. Hawking married Jane in 1965 but later got divorced. In 1995, he married his nurse Elaine Mason. His life story was also depicted in the award-winning movie “The Theory of Everything.”Along with his scientific work, Einstein also worked with civil rights activists to condemn racism and anti-Semitism, as he experienced it a lot. And Hawking became a symbol of hope and inspiration for many, especially those with a disability, as he continued to work and break barriers even with a severely limiting disorder.These two great minds challenged and changed the way we think and work. The impact they made in their fields is undeniable. Their names have become synonymous with genius, and the whole world is inspired by their hard work, motivation, and dedication to unraveling the mysteries of the universe.
In the high-stakes chess game of planetary survival, cutting-edge technologies aren’t just players—they’re the new grandmasters, outsmarting climate threats with intelligence beyond human capability. Imagine AI algorithms forecasting environmental shifts with quantum-level precision, satellite constellations feeding real-time data into policymaking, creating a digital nervous system for the Earth, and augmented reality (AR) experiences bringing climate impacts to life.
We’re not just witnessing a technological evolution; we’re entering a new era where machine learning interprets hidden ecological patterns, sensor networks unveil the unseen, and quantum models simulate planetary futures before they unfold. These are more than just tools; they are the guardians of our future. This fusion of technology and policy holds the potential to transform reactive governance into a proactive, data-driven force for planetary stewardship.
Artificial Intelligence: Turning Data into Strategic Insights
Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly become a cornerstone in the fight against climate change. AI-driven climate models refine predictions with unparalleled accuracy, helping policymakers make informed, proactive decisions. These sophisticated algorithms analyze vast datasets, detecting patterns and trends impossible for humans to discern. As a result, governments and organizations can develop more effective strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
For instance, AI models can forecast extreme weather events, giving communities crucial time to prepare and offering policymakers insights into implementing preventive measures.
Leveraging AI to interpret the Global data and predict emissions of CO2 by 2035. Credit: World Economic Forum
In 2024, Google’s DeepMind developed an AI system capable of predicting rainfall patterns with 90 percent accuracy just hours in advance. AI’s long-term modeling assists governments in designing infrastructure that anticipates changing climate conditions, thereby reducing vulnerability and enhancing resilience.
Quantum Computing: Simulating Planetary Futures
While AI excels at analyzing existing data, quantum computing has potential to revolutionize our understanding of climate change by enabling the simulation of complex environmental scenarios. Quantum computers, leveraging principles like superposition and entanglement, can process these calculations exponentially faster, enabling the exploration of numerous environmental scenarios in real time.
Imagine a quantum algorithm modeling the impact of deforestation in the Amazon, accounting for variables such as temperature shifts, carbon flux, biodiversity loss, and atmospheric feedback loops. Such simulations could reveal potential tipping points, guiding policymakers to intervene before ecological collapse becomes inevitable. In 2025, IBM announced significant investments in quantum solutions for climate research, signaling a future where quantum-enhanced models become indispensable tools for global governance.
Satellite Constellations and Sensor Networks: Earth’s Digital Nervous System
Satellite constellations and sensor networks form the backbone of Earth’s digital nervous system, providing real-time data on environmental conditions. These technologies enable continuous monitoring of the planet’s health, from atmospheric composition to land and ocean temperatures. By integrating this data into climate models, policymakers can make more informed decisions based on up-to-date information.
Recent advancements in Earth observation technology have enabled the launch of specialized satellites that monitor critical parameters such as greenhouse gas concentrations and ice melt. For example, NASA and the European Space Agency are now deploying high-resolution sensors that capture data essential for early warning systems. Integrating these data streams with AI analytics transforms raw information into actionable insights, empowering governments to enact policies that address both short-term emergencies and long-term climate resilience.
AR & VR: Enhancing Climate Awareness and Education
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies are transforming the way policymakers, stakeholders, and the public visualize and understand the impacts of climate change. For instance, VR simulations can take users on virtual tours of melting glaciers, deforested areas, or vulnerable coastal regions, providing a visceral understanding of the impacts of climate change.
AR applications can overlay real-time environmental data onto physical landscapes, allowing users to visualize climate changes in their surroundings. This enhanced understanding can drive greater public engagement and help policymakers envision the real-world implications of their decisions, leading to more informed and holistic policy development.
Drones: Eyes in the Sky for Environmental Monitoring
Drones, equipped with advanced sensors and cameras, can capture high-resolution imagery and data from hard-to-reach areas, such as remote forests, glaciers, and coastal regions. This information can supplement satellite and ground-based observations, providing a more comprehensive picture of the Earth’s climate.
Drones Soaring to Capture Data on the Frontlines of Climate-Driven Changes. Credit: Pilot Institute
Recent initiatives have demonstrated drones’ effectiveness in providing early warnings for climate tipping points. For example, the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency has funded projects that deploy fleets of drones to monitor critical areas like the Greenland ice sheet and the North Atlantic Ocean, detecting early signs of ecological collapse that can inform targeted policy intervention. By offering rapid, on-demand data collection, drones significantly enhance the government’s ability to respond to environmental emergencies and enforce climate policies.
Internet of Things (IoT): A Web Connectivity for Climate Action
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a vast network of interconnected devices that communicate continuously, collecting and transmitting data on everything from air quality to energy consumption. In the realm of climate policy, IoT devices are crucial for monitoring environmental conditions in real time. Sensors deployed across urban areas, agricultural fields, and remote ecosystems provide granular data that can be aggregated and analyzed to track climate trends and inform decision-making.
IoT in Action – A Web Showcase of Smart Solutions Shaping Climate Policy. Credit: Ullo & Sinha, 2020
For instance, in California, IoT-based systems have been developed to detect wildfires using sensors that send alerts to emergency services, thus mitigating potential damage. As these systems become increasingly sophisticated, they offer policymakers a constant stream of reliable data, which is essential for crafting dynamic, responsive climate policies.
A Collaborative Effort: Action Today for a Greener Tomorrow
As individuals, we hold the power to drive change by adopting sustainable practices in our daily lives. The integration of cutting-edge technologies into climate policy is not without its challenges. Effective implementation requires collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. By working together, these groups can ensure that technological advancements are harnessed to their full potential, driving meaningful progress in the fight against climate change.
One successful example of this collaboration is the European Union’s Copernicus program, which provides high-quality environmental data and services to support climate action. By leveraging satellite observations and other data sources, Copernicus enables policymakers to monitor and respond to environmental changes in real time. This integrated approach has proven invaluable in addressing climate challenges and promoting sustainability across Europe.
Reshaping Climate Policy: From Reactive to Proactive
The integration of Human efforts with AI, quantum computing, satellite constellations, AR/VR, drones, and the IoT is reshaping climate policy, transforming it from a slow, reactive process into a dynamic, data-driven force for planetary stewardship. By providing policymakers with the tools they need to understand the complexities of climate change and anticipate future challenges, these technologies are enabling a more proactive and effective approach to climate action.
The future of climate action isn’t just in human hands anymore—it’s in the algorithms, sensors, and simulations that are shaping a sustainable tomorrow. By embracing these cutting-edge solutions, we can create a more resilient world for coming generations.
Climate change is affecting almost every facet of life on the earth. According to NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS), the global mean temperature has risen by 1.1oC as compared to the pre-industrial period (1850-1900). The major culprit is the burning of fossil fuels, which releases enormous amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere disrupting the natural carbon cycle. As a result, the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has been steadily increasing, leading to increased absorption of the sun’s heat by the atmosphere, termed the greenhouse effect.
But how significant is the “climate change”? How detrimental can a 1oC increase in several hundred years be to the planet? The global temperature records collected from as early as the 19th century to the present show a dramatic warming trend correlates very well with increasing CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere. However, as James Watson, the Director of the Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science, University of Queensland, Australia notes, “we still don’t accept that global warming is a problem for now”.
The Impact of Rising Waters
The rise in global sea level is a direct effect of climate change. The warming of atmospheric temperature causes polar ice sheets to melt. The higher average temperature also affects the thermal expansion of water and increases sea levels.
Since oceans cover the major percentage of the earth’s surface, this can have significant adverse impacts on the planet: saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources, coastal flooding, and also damage to land and infrastructure. The Mekong River delta in Vietnam, known as the rice bowl of Southeast Asia is bearing the brunt of climate change in this way, where the saltwater is being pushed further upstream and into the farmlands, disrupting farming practices.
Low-lying islands are particularly susceptible to the consequences of climate change. Several island nations like Maldives, Kiribati, and Tuvalu, are being rapidly devoured by the oceans, the latter two being projected to be completely submerged by 2100 at the present rate of global warming.
Photo, Wikipedia
Although not widely acknowledged, a significant fraction of Earth’s biodiversity has been severely affected by climate change and subsequent sea level rise. Several species are grappling with the loss of habitat and foraging areas. Contrary to intuition, it is not only the terrestrial biodiversity that’s being affected by the rising sea levels; marine species are, too.
Coral reefs, which support a large fraction of marine biodiversity, have been drastically affected by the increasing ocean temperatures, and the population has halved in the last 150 years. For Hawaiian Monk Seal and loggerhead Turtle, the loss of beaches hinders their reproductive cycle, leading to these already endangered species closer to the brink of extinction.
To put the picture into perspective, climate change has already wiped out a mammal from the face of the planet: the Bramble Cay Melomys. A species endemic to the isolated island of Bramble Cay of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, these rodents are the first mammalian victims of the rising sea level and extreme weather events that caused habitat loss and loss of food sources.
The location of Bramble Cay in relation to Papua New Guinea and Cape York Peninsula, Australia. Photo, Research Gate
Extensive surveys carried out between 2011 and 2014 failed to give any trace of the rodents on the island. Last spotted by the natives in 2009, the tiny rodent was known to be easily spotted in the 1980s. The sea level in the region near Bramble Cay (Torres Strait, Queensland) is rising 0.6cm per year, almost twice the average global rate.
The storm surges due to cyclone activity have also increased after the 1950s. Studies and analyses show that the area on the island that lies above high tide has shrunk from 9.8 acres in 1998 to 6.2 acres effectively reducing the habitat for the Melomys.
The scientists also show evidence that the island of Bramble Cay faced ocean inundations on an increasingly regular basis as a result of climate change over the past years. The increased ocean inundation and the extreme weather have also been correlated to the loss of vegetation (Portulaca oleracea, a fleshy herb, common on the island) that the Melomys predominantly feed on.
In 2014, when the last survey for the rodents was conducted and failed, the vegetation cover was identified to be reduced by 97 percent from that of 2004, when they were last spotted on the islands.
Scientists speculate that frequent ocean flooding of the island might also have caused the direct mortality of several individuals in the already diminishing population. Interestingly, the Melomys species was free from direct human-animal conflicts; it lived on an isolated island uninhabited by humans. Species getting extinct without other direct interventions are a stark reminder that climate change is impacting biodiversity.
The warning bell for climate action
Several researchers believe that this extinction could have been prevented if the Queensland government had made a timely intervention. Although a recovery plan was proposed for the species in 2008, it was not implemented effectively, according to experts. The Bramble Cay Melomys was declared extinct on 18 February 2019 by the Australian government. The day is now observed as Bramble Cay Melomys Day, as a reminder of the first casualty of human-induced climate change.
While this Rodent species extinction is being pushed into oblivion as being insignificant, it serves as striking evidence to show that global warming and its effects are very real. A study estimates that a rise of sea level by 1 meter will submerge 6 percent of islands and with it, 10 percent of biodiversity hotspots.
Given that the world is seeing several groups of “climate change refugees”, people migrating from locations threatened due to climate change to safer zones, it is also important to consider measures to conserve the endemic biodiversity of these regions that are threatened to be devoured by the seas.
References:
Krauss L. M, The Physics of Climate Change, Bloomsbury Publishing, 2021.
Costello, M.J., et al, 2022: Cross-Chapter Paper 1: Biodiversity Hotspots. In: Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK and New York, NY, USA, pp. 2123–2161, doi:10.1017/9781009325844.018
Waller N. L et al, The Bramble Cay melomys Melomys rubicola (Rodentia: Muridae): a first mammalian extinction caused by human-induced climate change? Wildlife Research, 2017, 44, 9–21
Gynther, I., Waller, N. & Leung, L.K.-P. (2016) Confirmation of the extinction of the Bramble Cay Melomys Melomys rubicola on Bramble Cay, Torres Strait: results and conclusions from a comprehensive survey in August–September 2014. Unpublished report to the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, Queensland Government, Brisbane.
In a society constantly chasing the next thrill, we often overlook the hidden power of boredom. While excitement can lead us to complacency and a desire to remain in our comfort zones, monotony can serve as the fertile ground for success. However, in this age of social media and self-promotion, we find ourselves grappling with an epidemic of narcissism that threatens our emotional well-being and social fabric. This article delves into the nature of Narcissist Personality Disorder (NPD), its correlation with social media, and how we can navigate a world with self-centered behavior.
Narcissism, characterized by grandiosity (W.keith Campbell, 2019), a lack of empathy, and an excessive focus on oneself, is not confined to any one gender. Studies suggest that NPD affects between 0.5 percent to 6 percent of the population, with a notable prevalence among men.
The rise of narcissism is particularly alarming among the youth, who often find themselves in emotionally abusive relationships with narcissistic peers, parents, or colleagues. This self-importance and need for validation can lead to toxic environments that stifle personal growth.
NPD seems to be proliferating, especially among the generation zee. Social landscapes particularly Instagram, TikTok, and X are designed to incorporate a sense of validation, self-promotion, and curated images that are anything but the norm of modus operandi. These digital platforms are a double-edged sword, boosting confidence for fame and sensation while shattering moral values and aplomb. Various factors are involved that display the blueprints of narcissistic behavior.
First, our youth has been caught in the trend of a validation loop that has intoxicated their thoughts and daily life performances. The game of views and going viral has made them addicted to dopamine surges and unethical activities. Thus, the invisible shackles of external validation and digital reliance are cultivating a culture of narcissism and self-centered behavior.
Second, the most cringe-influencer syndrome among our youth. In today’s world without knowledge, professional degrees, skills, and hard work, one can influence you in every aspect of life, earning fame and money which ultimately fails us as a nation. The influencer culture goes parallel with the narcissistic disorder because it fosters and glorifies the social status image among the user and qualifies the traits of admiration, grandiosity, and entitlement.
Third, the social comparison trap of self-curated success profiles has played a vital role in developing envious behavior among people. A daily content-less vlog of thirty minutes, the pomp and show of superficial achievements and social recognition all over your feeds and stories, creates a social gap and insecurities among people. Eventually, it fuels the narcissistic traits to achieve limelight and superiority.
Other than reel life, NPD has also been observed in real-life scenarios. It is quite visible between co-workers to grab the best positions, among siblings to be the apple of the eye of the parents; among students in universities and colleges to be a shining star of the institute.
Thus, NPD is neither solely related to the digital world nor actual life, it is considered to have evolved due to pre-existing experiences and vulnerabilities including a lack of empathy, emotions, fragile self-esteem, conceit, and exploitation.
While Trump garnered significant support through his bold policies and social media presence, his grandiosity and lack of emotional intelligence often overshadowed his legacy as a leader. Photo, Al Jazeera
Case Study 1: Donald Trump– A Narcissist Leader?
In 2019, I was in the US, what I observed in the democratic, yet autocratic government was the prevalence of single-person ideology that is regarded as the larger-than-life figure, securing unparalleled support from the followers. Either “economic policies” or “America-first” trends, tariffs on China or trade deals like “NAFTA”, conservative Judiciary appointments, or Twitter- trends, in short, you name it and it is there. Yes, of course, I am talking about Trump’s legacy.
Donald Trump, now the 47th President of the US, left an imperishable mark on the U.S. political history during his last tenure which brought both “applause” from the supporters and “scorn” from the critics. Unapologetically, his current Presidency is no less of Conflicts and errors arise, only if he is concerned.
Undoubtedly, Trump’s political and economic reforms solidified his status as an influential entity in the business class, conservatives, and online audience. These factors are enough to cater to his desires and whims, the overwhelming demand for self-admiration, and recklessness, traits of a narcissistic mindset.
He proved himself to be a narcissist when he struggled with “leadership” issues due to malignant narcissistic traits, which have been critiqued by over 200 health professionals and ultimately charismatic rhetoric and public charm failed to strengthen his prestige and persona.
The story never ends here. My Colleagues and I have to witness the COVID pandemic hit. The erratic decision-making during the pandemic and political preferences, including re-elections, over the health crisis exposed the “biased” leadership of the president.
Additionally, his lack of emotional intelligence raised a question mark on his administrative skills and public empathy. The bond between social media and Trump is evident, especially the “Twitter” or ” X-platform” keeping him out of traditional media platforms which reflects his self-adulation and personal preferences over cultural norms.
There is one class of people who viewed his narcissism as self-confidence and unfiltered communication as signs of strength and leadership. Whereas” his narcissism is damaging to democracy, ethics, and national discourse”, according to the critique.
With this case study, I have documented that social media-induced narcissism is not only trending among youth, but people of every age are suffering, and Trump has proved it through his Twitter campaigns, social rallies, and civil disturbances including impeachment and Capitol incidents. Donald Trump’s presidency serves as a prime example of how narcissism can influence leadership.
While he garnered significant support through his bold policies and social media presence, his grandiosity and lack of emotional intelligence often overshadowed his legacy as a leader. Critics point to his erratic decision-making during crises, like the COVID pandemic, as evidence of how narcissistic traits can undermine public trust and governance.
Any objections or accountability can switch a narcissist into rivalry. Photo, Forbes
Case Study 2: How Narcissists impact workplaces environment
Before starting this story, I want to highlight workplace narcissism as a byproduct of gender inequality and a male-dominated society. First, it is hardly diagnosed and treated as people consider the behavioral pattern normal and on point. In reality, it is one of the worst personality disorders that can ruin the mental peace and personal growth of co-workers.
In my first job out of university, I was assigned to work with a team of academics and subject specialists. I met Saad, the team lead, renowned for his “immaculate vision” and “leadership skills”. He assumed himself to be version 2.0. Why not? He was the right hand of the CEO and he knows well how to turn things in his favour. But for me, his behavior was quite self-centered and critical.
His lack of disrespect for the opposite gender and patriarchal mindset hit the last nail in the coffin and proved himself emotionally insensitive and self-obsessed. He used to pass unnecessary remarks on others’ performances and steer the discussions to maximize his personal opinions, desired self-admiration, and validation. Any objections or accountability switched him into rivalry mode which is a clear symptom of vulnerable narcissism. He made the office environment miserable for others which brought a huge emotional toll on the well-being of others.
Saad’s and Trump’s stories reflect that not all social media users are narcissists and not all nerds are mentally healthy and stable. Narcissism is the by-product of your previous life challenges, experiences specifically in childhood. Childhood traumas, excessive parental praise, emotional or sexual abuse, or societal backlash, slowly and gradually become a personality trait without considering its harmful impacts on others.
Coping with Narcissist is draining but not impossible!
There is a body of research that suggests navigating relationships with narcissistic individuals can be challenging, especially when they are family members, bosses, or close friends. Here are some strategies to cope:
First things first, If you want to survive in any of these scenarios, you have to be emotionally intelligent and empathetic. So, you do not get it from the opposite party, you can offer it from your plate. If your parents confront you, do not get exhausted, but handle the situation with care and empathy and then attempt to assert yourself.
Be mindful of your goals and targets, set clear boundaries (Kluger, 2025), and do not get rattled by the bad behavior of your employer. It is just a job and you can master it through your composed personality and behavior.
Last but not least, if the next person is your loved one, give each other space and time, do not rush into relationships, if you get indicators of concern. You must set clear boundaries and never tolerate vicious behavior, because the person might play victim and lose his temper which brings insecurities and emotional trauma.
When to say goodbye!
It is not a human tendency to suffer negative feedback and narcissistic traits every time. It can be challenging sometimes if you are not heard enough, constantly ignored or betrayed, you must leave the place to secure your mental and physical health, and integrity. If your work environment is exhausting and deteriorating your energies, look for new opportunities, set clear boundaries, and limit your interactions with the narcissist individual.
In a relationship, if you are the one who suffers the negativity, leave the person for the sake of your safety and well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted friends, counselors, mentors, and parents to maintain your emotional health and discuss your daily life experiences so that you can seek guidance that you have not been getting.
The Path Forward
While narcissism is a complex and often damaging personality trait, it is not insurmountable. By understanding its roots and recognizing its manifestations in digital and real-world contexts, we can equip ourselves with the tools to navigate these challenges.
Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your emotional health and well-being. In a world where excitement often reigns supreme, embracing moments of boredom may just be the key to unlocking your potential for success and fulfillment. As we strive to cultivate empathy and authenticity, we can pave the way for a more balanced and compassionate society.
Climate change has become one of the most pressing issues worldwide affecting ecosystems, economies, and public health on an unprecedented scale. The 2004 box-office hit, The Day After Tomorrow directed by Roland Emmerich successfully managed to dispense the subject of climate change into the mainstream cultural conversation.
The classic disaster flick opens with the US leaders conveniently dismissing scientific findings about the loss of a huge chunk of Antarctic ice shelf which sets off a series of freak events, culminating in a global catastrophe that immerses the entire northern hemisphere into a new ice age. While the film itself is peppered with dramatic visuals, absurd timelines, and bursts of chauvinism with its cultural impact on people’s perception of global climate, it feels closer to our reality in 2025 than it did back in 2004.
The Day After Tomorrow mainly follows the story of its own American NOAA paleoclimatologist, Jack (Dennis Quaid) with his sulky math-genius teenage son, Sam (Jack Gyllenhaal), a senior student in West Virginia. He joins his classmates as a team to attend an academic decathlon at the Grand Central Terminal and MetLife Building in New York City.
As a massive storm and tsunami hammers the entire city, Sam and his friends take shelter in the New York Library where they are stranded and have no choice but to survive on chocolate bars from vending machines and heat from the books they burn in the library fireplace. Meanwhile, Jack advises Sam and his friends to stay put as he sets forth a painstaking journey to rescue his son amidst a deadly ice age.
Unlike scientific publications and government policy papers, box-office smashers have the potential to reach mass audiences, often sparking discussions and debates regarding complex issues like global warming/climate change. Photo Unsplash
The film offered an eccentric representation of climate change. According to Yale Climate Connections, it garnered massive environmental and political attention and drew in a wide range of public reviews and commentary following its release on Memorial Day weekend. Additionally, it shaped public opinion on climate change and had an outsized impact on raising awareness.
Unlike scientific publications and government policy papers, box-office smashers have the potential to reach mass audiences, often sparking discussions and debates regarding complex issues like global warming/climate change. The Day After Tomorrow did exactly that by showcasing extreme weather events on a global scale.
However, the film also blurred lines between science and fiction leading to some misconceptions regarding the actual risks of climate change. Despite overblown timelines of climate events, it served as a wake-up call for most viewers, introducing them to scientific concepts like AMOC and the consequences of abrupt climatic shifts. Scientists and environmentalists, alike, acknowledged that the film’s effective role in raising tremendous awareness compared to other media sources overshadowed the lack of scientific accuracy.
One of the most prominent concepts introduced to the viewers was The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). AMOC, being an essential component of Earth’s climate system, regulates Earth’s climate by distributing hot water from the tropics to the North Atlantic. Today, scientists have expressed concerns that the current global warming could cripple or completely block this circulation causing abrupt climate changes worldwide.
The film’s accurate depiction of AMOC’s role in climate change, however, did not stop Emmerich from taking considerable artistic liberties with the events in the climate timeline. The Day After Tomorrow mirrors his signature style; blending large-scale destruction with human-centered narratives. According to the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), a collapse of AMOC in reality would take decades or centuries rather than days and would not result in an immediate development of a new ice age.
The ongoing gradual weakening of AMOC could lead to a more toned down yet lethal outcome such as rising sea levels in the North Atlantic region and changes in weather patterns across the globe, mainly in the European and African continents.
Similarly, the film’s characterization of chaos and destruction on a colossal scale with gusts of machismo exaggerates the emotional impact of the evolving climate change. Emmerich’s typical direction ridiculously amplifies the consequences of major climate events depicted in the film from hurricanes and tsunamis to a new ice age altogether! The idea of a global superstorm causing a rapid decline in temperatures at a freezing level is scientifically impossible to begin with!
The idea of a global superstorm causing a rapid decline in temperatures at a freezing level is scientifically impossible to begin with! Photo Unsplash
At the same time, recent weather events from 2022 Floods in Pakistan to Hurricane Helene in 2024 and wildfires in LA in 2025 are becoming more extreme and frequent so we cannot completely undermine the exaggerations associated with the consequences of climate change. Nonetheless, as reported by Business Insider, the gravity and frequency of the ongoing extreme weather events caused by climate change cannot be compared to the film’s elaborate and unrealistic depiction of this phenomenon.
As far as public perception and scientific critique are concerned, the film gained mixed reviews. While many praised Emmerich’s heart-touching portrayal of human resilience in the face of global-scale threats and havoc, others heavily criticized the film for its bizarre representation of science.
Potsdam Institute claims that the film distorts complex climate processes which present a cataclysmic situation that could lead to misinformation amongst the viewers. On the contrary, Yale Climate Connections accounts for the film as an insightful experience for non-scientific audiences, even influencing some to learn the science behind climate change.
Conventionally, the film harbors the ability to connect with audiences on a sentimental level because within it lies the power of storytelling via climate journalism. Moreover, the Public Library of Science posted a study highlighting the significance of engaging the public through media platforms to be educated on complex issues like climate change. Climate communicators of tomorrow need to steer in the right direction today by enforcing emotive engagement in the public while keeping scientific integrity intact.
Personally, the film’s absurd portrayal of climate change is more relevant today. After all, we live in the age of ecological surrealism – one that refers to the climate crisis at hand delineates the collision between humanity and nature, and urges the world to question and reflect on innovative approaches that can help implement a solution.
Climate change is not an individual’s fault rather it is a byproduct of collective negligence and inaction, as a species, which has brought us to a standstill today. To reverse it, we need collective action and attention. We must not let today alter our tomorrow. Today cannot be The Day After Tomorrow.
References:
Aylin Woodward. (2019, March 25). What “Day After Tomorrow” got right and wrong about climate shifts – Business Insider. Business Insider; Business Insider. https://www.businessinsider.com/day-after-tomorrow-was-right-and-wrong-about-climate-shifts-2019-3
For this edition of Scientia, themed “Climate Change Impact on Healthcare,” we had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Quaid Saeed, a public health specialist fromPakistan. Dr. Saeed has worked on the frontlines of emergencies and humanitarian crises, served as a National Program Officerfor theWorld Health Organization (WHO)in Pakistan for over 12 years, and managed Global Fund Grants to combat infectious diseases.
Below is our insightful conversation with Dr. Saeed with our team member Maham Maqsood, where he shares his expertise on climate-related health challenges, disease transmission, and the importance of global cooperation in building resilient healthcare systems.
Dr. Quaid Saeed, a public health specialist from Pakistan
Maham: You have extensive experience dealing with emergencies and humanitarian crises and bring a broad range of managerial, analytical, and leadership skills to different national and provincial health projects. Would you like to share one of these prominent projects you are proud of?
Dr Saeed: Throughout my career, I have worked extensively in emergency and humanitarian response, particularly in Pakistan, where I was involved in several major health crises. My experience spans from working with the World Health Organization (WHO) after 9/11, closely collaborating with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) health authorities, to responding to natural disasters and disease outbreaks.
One of the most challenging and impactful experiences of my career was responding to the devastating 2005 earthquake in Pakistan. At the time, I was part of WHO’s emergency response team, working at the emergency cell in the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). The earthquake struck on October 8th, and relief efforts began the following day. By the third day, I was deployed to Battagram and later moved to Mansehra, where I remained for the next two months.
The scale of devastation was overwhelming. Casualties were high, and health services were stretched to their limits. Aftershocks, some reaching a magnitude of 6.0 on the Richter scale, continued for weeks, further destabilizing an already fragile situation. At the WHO office in Mansehra, safety concerns mounted as cracks appeared in buildings. Within ten days, we resorted to sleeping in tents to mitigate the risk of collapsing structures.
Despite the immense destruction, emergency health services in Mansehra and across KP continued relentlessly. Evacuations were facilitated by American helicopters, and international aid poured in. Medical teams from Cuba, Turkey, and various other countries arrived to support relief efforts. I worked alongside them in field hospitals in Mansehra and Battagram, managing complex injuries, including spinal trauma and amputations. Psychological distress was widespread, as many had lost loved ones. International experts provided much-needed mental health support, while maternal and child health issues, respiratory infections, and other emerging diseases posed additional challenges, worsened by the extreme cold.
Following my fieldwork, I continued coordinating efforts from Islamabad for the next six to eight months, ensuring sustained healthcare services and support.
Beyond the earthquake response, my time at WHO also involved tackling disease outbreaks. I witnessed and worked on the dengue outbreak, as well as an outbreak of cutaneous leishmaniasis along the Peshawar-Afghanistan border. The latter was introduced by Afghan refugees, as the parasite had been endemic in Afghanistan for centuries. When refugees migrated, the parasite found a suitable vector in Pakistan, leading to widespread infections, particularly in Kurram district. WHO played a crucial role in importing medications, training local doctors, and developing treatment protocols.
Additionally, I was part of WHO’s response to the 2008 HIV outbreak in Gujarat and later in Larkana. These outbreaks reinforced the need for strengthened disease surveillance, infection control, and public health interventions.
My experiences in emergency response have been both professionally and personally transformative, and each crisis has been a learning opportunity.
Maham: Could you share your experience in public health, particularly your work on infectious diseases and pandemic preparedness? What are the challenges that hinder Pakistan’s healthcare system from providing the best health practices?
Dr Saeed: Pakistan’s healthcare system is structured across four tiers: Basic Health Units (BHUs), Rural Health Centers (RHCs), Tehsil Hospitals, and District Hospitals, with teaching hospitals serving as the final referral point. The foundation of this system was laid in the 1980s to provide basic healthcare services at the community level. Basic Health Units and Community Welfare Centers were designed to cater to populations of approximately 10,000. Meanwhile, RHCs, serving around 40,000 people, were equipped with small laboratories and served as the next level of care. Patients requiring further treatment were referred to Tehsil Hospitals, then to District Hospitals, and, if necessary, to teaching hospitals.
Rural Health Center Khichi Wala. Credit: PSHD
Although this model was well-conceived, it has struggled with fragmentation and inefficiency, particularly at the primary healthcare level. Many small communities bypass BHUs and RHCs, leading to overcrowding at District Hospitals, which strains resources and limits access to timely care.
During disease outbreaks, a robust public health system must ensure early detection, containment, and response to infectious disease outbreaks. The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a trend-monitoring model that enables healthcare professionals to track disease incidence, detect emerging outbreaks, and intervene before widespread transmission occurs. A key indicator in epidemiology is the doubling of incidence, which signals the potential for an outbreak.
For effective containment, early isolation of suspected cases is essential. In Pakistan, this can only be achieved if BHUs and RHCs function efficiently. Infectious disease management requires a multifaceted strategy:
Early Detection: Identifying cases as soon as possible through functional surveillance systems and diagnostic testing.
Containment: Isolating affected individuals, implementing quarantine measures, and minimizing community transmission.
Response and Recovery: Treating infected individuals, protecting healthcare workers, and ensuring continued healthcare delivery.
As you might have witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare workers were prioritized for vaccination to safeguard their ability to provide care. Widespread vaccination efforts ultimately contributed to herd immunity, slowing transmission. However, Pakistan’s early detection infrastructure remains inadequate, with limited diagnostic capacity in public hospitals and a lack of functional laboratories at the district level. While there is the NIH Reference Lab in Islamabad, its provincial branches are not effectively operational. As a result, outbreaks are often detected only after media reports, by which time containment becomes significantly more challenging.
Pakistan’s experience with COVID-19 highlights the need for stronger outbreak preparedness. The virus initially spread when infected travelers returned from Wuhan via government-facilitated repatriation flights. In the early days, there was no systematic diagnostic or quarantine infrastructure to contain the spread.
To prevent future outbreaks, key measures must be implemented. Essential medical supplies should be stockpiled, including laboratory reagents and personal protective equipment (PPE). Laboratory networks should be strengthened, ensuring district-level diagnostic capacity for early pathogen detection.There should be proper training of the healthcare staff in outbreak management and patient care protocols. Moreover, public health surveillance must be improved to identify transmission patterns and respond proactively.
In short, a comprehensive preparedness, response, and recovery framework is critical to mitigating future pandemics and strengthening Pakistan’s healthcare system against emerging infectious diseases.
Maham: How do you see the intersection between climate change and public healthcare challenges? How has climate change contributed to the spread of infectious diseases malaria, dengue, Hepatitis, and zoonotic diseases?
Dr Saeed: Climate change is a critical issue that significantly influences the spread of infectious diseases. Normally, animals and birds don’t transmit viruses to humans, and vice versa, but environmental changes can disrupt this balance. Climate shifts can enable viruses to evolve and cross species barriers: a process that has led to diseases like HIV/AIDS, which originated when humans consumed raw monkey meat in Africa, allowing the virus to jump to humans and spread through sexual transmission.
Increased human-wildlife interaction also raises the risk of zoonotic spillover events. Densely populated regions, like parts of South Asia, are particularly vulnerable to rapid transmission. For example, influenza outbreaks often originate in China, where WHO monitors viral trends to predict and develop flu vaccines a year in advance to mitigate global spread.
In Pakistan, climate change has contributed to the rise of diseases like dengue. Over the past decade, unpredictable rains and flooding have created pockets of stagnant water, which are ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, which thrive in clean, freshwater environments. Rainwater collected in household containers, plant pots, and other reservoirs increased mosquito populations, leading to severe outbreaks. In Lahore, for instance, an unusually heavy monsoon season triggered a major dengue epidemic, with record-breaking cases the following year.
Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns have also driven the emergence of diseases like Zika and Chikungunya. Additionally, diseases like malaria and leishmaniasis spread through vectors like sandflies, which were introduced to refugee camps but found suitable conditions to persist and spread across KP, Balochistan, and Sindh, making these diseases endemic in certain areas.
So, climate change acts as a force multiplier for infectious disease transmission, intensifying existing public health challenges. This emphasizes the urgent need for climate-resilient healthcare systems and proactive disease surveillance.
Pakistan’s experience with COVID-19 highlights the need for stronger outbreak preparedness. Credit: Anadolu Agency
Maham: How important is global cooperation, such as between governments and organizations like WHO, in tackling climate-related healthcare issues? What steps should be prioritized globally and locally to mitigate the healthcare impact of climate change?
Dr Saeed: Global cooperation is crucial for managing healthcare issues influenced by climate change, especially for vector-borne diseases whose spread is influenced by shifting habitats. Climate change is expanding the range of vectors like mosquitoes and sandflies, increasing the risk of outbreaks in new regions. In an interconnected world with extensive human travel, infections can quickly spread across continents, as we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic.
After COVID-19, the Global Health Security Agenda was reinforced, emphasizing stronger health systems, early detection, and rapid response to contain outbreaks. Critical amendments were made to the International Health Regulations (IHR), signed by 194 member states, creating a framework for global collaboration. This includes establishing detection labs, sharing real-time data with WHO, and coordinating a unified response to emerging threats.
When a new virus emerges, countries must work together across multiple fronts ranging from accelerating immunization efforts to implementing containment strategies. Climate change is a global crisis, and its impact on public health is a shared burden. By improving international collaboration, investing in surveillance systems, and strengthening local healthcare infrastructure, we can build a more resilient global health system capable of preventing future pandemics.
Maham: With your extensive experience managing Global Fund Grants at the national level, could you outline the process for startups and community-based organizations to access these funding opportunities?
Dr Saeed: The Global Fund supports the fight against AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria across countries with the ‘highest disease burden and lowest economic capacity.’ The funding model works through a structured system of Principal Recipients (PRs), which are often ministries of health or large private-sector entities, who oversee fund distribution over a three-year cycle. These funds are gradually allocated to Sub-Recipients (SRs) and Sub-Sub-Recipients (SSRs), which are typically community-based organizations (CBOs) or NGOs working at the grassroots level.
During my time with the Global Fund, I worked with the Common Management Unit (CMU), which handled national-level eradication efforts for AIDS and TB. The selection of recipients is very rigorous. Funding calls are publicly advertised, and NGOs apply with detailed profiles showcasing their strengths, experience, community reach, and capacity to implement impactful programs. The selection process is competitive, and only organizations with a clear track record and community-trained teams are awarded grants.
For startups, the key to accessing these opportunities lies in building a robust program with a well-documented impact on the target community. It’s essential to demonstrate expertise in health interventions, case detection, treatment provision, and prevention measures. For example, community-led organizations, such as those run by transgender advocates for HIV prevention and care, receive funding because they have direct access to underserved populations and understand local challenges that might escape larger institutions.
The Global Fund prioritizes organizations that can deliver tangible results on the ground, bridge gaps in healthcare, and help stop disease transmission.
South Asia is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing regions and a vast, dynamic human capital. It is achieving notable economic progress due to its numerous natural reserves of global importance. However, this region is also vulnerable to sudden shifts in climate and weather patterns, including massive floods, droughts, cyclones, and extreme heat waves that pose a significant risk to its growth trajectory, infrastructure, and people’s livelihoods. 2
Pakistan is a country with rich natural reservoirs of land and water resources. The entire economy of Pakistan is dependent upon raw agricultural produce and products. Farmers like Abdul Raheem now face an uncertain future in the heart of Punjab, where lush green fields once promised abundant harvests and vast arrays of crop fields.
For generations, agriculture has been the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, with crops such as wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane dominating exports. But the sudden shifts in climate change have thrown the sector into turmoil, leaving a hopeless situation for local farmers.
“It’s not like it used to be,” says Abdul Raheem, a third-generation farmer from Faisalabad. “We used to have clear seasons, winter, summer, monsoon; everything was predictable. Now, it feels like the weather has a mind of its own.” His words reflect a sentiment shared by many other farmers across the country.
The entire vicinity of densely populated cities of Punjab province depended upon the factories that processed agricultural products from sowing to harvesting and packaging and marketing. However, the breakdown faced by local people, mainly due to the shift in weather patterns, is devastatingly affecting the livelihoods.
In recent years, erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and unexpected temperature shifts have wreaked havoc on agricultural yields. The once-reliable monsoon season now brings either torrential downpours that flood fields or a disappointing drizzle that barely wets the soil. “The wheat that should be thriving is struggling, and the cotton is no better,” Abdul Raheem laments.
Research indicates that shifting rainfall patterns have affected various crops by 6–15 Percent, with rain-fed crops like wheat experiencing reductions of up to 15 percent. This decline does not include the effects of heat waves and floods. 5
Experts warn that Pakistan’s reliance merely on agriculture-based exports makes it especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The Rabi and Kharif crop cycles, traditionally dependable, have become unpredictable. Rabi crops like wheat and barley, typically sown in November, now face delays due to late rains. Similarly, Kharif crops such as rice and sugarcane suffer from fluctuating weather conditions that disturb their growth cycles.
“These disruptions are not just about food security,” explains an environmental scientist. “Agriculture is tied to our economy, livelihoods, and even health. Poor yields mean rising food prices, economic instability, and malnutrition in rural areas.”
The problem isn’t confined to rural Pakistan. Urban areas, too, feel the effects as imported fruits and vegetables fill markets due to dwindling local produce. Farmers, struggling to adapt, are turning to short-term solutions like excessive water usage, which further depletes resources.
World organizations have stepped in, offering solutions to mitigate the crisis. Initiatives like climate-resilient farming, crop diversification, and water conservation are being promoted. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is working with Pakistan to introduce drought-resistant crop varieties and improve irrigation systems. Yet, for farmers like Abdul Raheem, these efforts often feel like drops in an ocean of challenges.
Statistical data states that climate change is posing a serious threat to Pakistan’s agriculture, with projections indicating an 8-10 percent decline in agricultural production by 2040. Key crops such as wheat and Basmati rice are expected to suffer significantly, with wheat yields potentially decreasing by 6 percent and Basmati rice by 15-18 percent due to rising temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns. This is especially alarming given the critical role agriculture plays in Pakistan’s economy and food security. 6
“The land is shrinking,” Abdul Raheem says, referring to the relentless encroachment of urbanization and deforestation, leading to a stark reduction in arable land. As cities and urban areas expand with unending infrastructure projects claiming vast stretches of farmland, the availability of fertile soil for agriculture comes to a halt gradually. This loss of productive land is further compounded by climate change, soil degradation, and erratic weather patterns, all of which make traditional farming increasingly difficult for local farmers.
In many regions of the world, particularly Pakistan, deforestation is not just stripping the land of its trees but also disrupting delicate ecological cycles, food chains, and food webs. Forests act as natural water reservoirs, regulating rainfall patterns and, in turn, maintaining soil fertility. Their destruction leads to increased soil erosion, making the ground less capable of supporting crops. As a result, farmers struggle with declining yields, forcing many to either abandon agriculture or adopt unsustainable practices that further degrade the land for good.
Additionally, the depletion of water resources exacerbates the crisis. As groundwater levels drop and rivers dry up due to overuse, increasing pollutants, and climate shifts, irrigation becomes more challenging. Without sufficient water, even the most fertile land cannot sustain crops, threatening overall food production locally and simultaneously on a large scale.
This situation creates a chain reaction: food shortages lead to rising prices, making basic nutrition inaccessible to lower-income populations, ultimately affecting a nation’s food security and economic crash.
For countries with rapidly growing populations, like Pakistan, this shrinking land availability presents a significant challenge for all the tiers involved. With more mouths to feed and fewer resources to do so, governments and communities must rethink their agricultural strategies.
Solutions such as vertical farming, precision agriculture, and sustainable land management practices can help mitigate some of these challenges. However, without any unplanned and immediate action to curb unchecked urban growth and environmental degradation, the struggle to provide food for future generations will only become more difficult with time.
Abdul Raheem’s concerns reflect a global reality, one where land, once abundant and fertile, is now a contested resource. The urgency to address these issues has never been greater, as the very foundation of human survival depends on our ability to preserve and sustain the land that feeds us.
Despite the grim outlook, some experts still stress that hope isn’t lost. Reforestation projects, investment in renewable energy, and education on sustainable farming practices can pave the way for a more secure future.
“There are heatwaves and dust storms in Gwadar,” says Ahmed. “But the main impact of climate change here is that there is too much water and not enough of it. If nothing is done to address this problem, we will have no option but to retreat.”1
The challenges posed by climate change are daunting, but Pakistan’s farmers are resilient. They stand on the frontlines, battling not just the elements but also the systemic issues that have left the agricultural sector vulnerable.
Additionally, the government focuses on updating the early warning system to provide farmers with timely information about impending extreme weather events and also raising funds for local farmers to go for alternate options for earning livelihoods. 3
As the world continues its battle against climate change, farmers like Abdul Raheem remind us that every effort counts for their fields, their families, and the nation’s future.
All That Breathes, directed by Shaunak Sen, is a powerful documentary that explores the impact of climate change and environmental degradation on life in Delhi, India. It follows two brothers, Mohammad Saud and Nadeem Shehzad, running a bird hospital in their basement. The film highlights the struggles of both humans and animals in one of the world’s most polluted cities.
This is an inspiring story about the interdependence of all life in the face of a global catastrophe, not simply about protecting birds. The documentary, in total, features fifteen different species, including humans, cows, cats, dogs, horses, rats, kites, owls, pigs, squirrels, snails, mosquitoes, spiders, turtles and toads all living together and suffering in the streets of Delhi.
Delhi has become a living example of how climate change can reshape urban life. Rising temperatures, poor air quality, and unpredictable weather patterns have created harsh living conditions for its human residents. The toxic air, filled with vehicular emissions, industrial waste, and construction dust, poses severe health risks.
The documentary refers to the situation as it captures eye infections and upper respiratory tract infections in one of the brothers and his child as they ‘normally’ spend their day-to-day life. Unexpected rains worsen the living conditions of the residents as sewage water enters their homes, giving way to many more health problems and infections. Due to their lack of access to essential resources like safe water, clean air, and quality healthcare, low-income areas are disproportionately impacted.
The documentary makes its point and says, “As Delhi’s air changed, so did its metabolism.”
The effects of pollution on people are widely known, but All That Breathes turns the attention to urban wildlife, especially black kites. Degradation of the ecosystem has had a significant impact on these magnificent birds, which are frequently spotted soaring above Delhi.
Mohammad’s brothers have dinner with their family after a long day of running a bird hospital to save the black kites. Photo: Author
The film highlights the dangers they encounter, such as contaminated water, diminished food supplies, and harm from man-made hazards like glass-coated kite strings. These birds rely on the brothers’ tiny clinics for survival, highlighting the critical necessity for human action to save nature.
In the socio-cultural context, these birds are treated specially as they are fed by people to gain Sawaab, good deeds. However, nobody wants to treat falling birds from the sky. The brothers and their helper, Salik, are extremely empathetic and save these birds even if they have to swim across a river to treat them.
Other residents of the society acknowledge their efforts but do not contribute to the cause financially or resourcefully. There could be multiple reasons behind the first one being the low resource background of these society members and the other being desensitization. A society where people are over-exposed to violence, either in the form of communal or religious, will be less likely to empathize with anyone around them, let alone animals.
As evidenced by research, exposure to violence reduces physiological reactivity and emotional empathy, indicating the existence of both physiological and emotional desensitization.
The brother’s work serves as a reminder that humans and animals are intertwined. One species’ survival frequently hinges on the welfare of other species. Their experience serves as evidence of the effectiveness of empathy and cooperation in resolving environmental issues.
As in the documentary itself, they explain the importance of Kites in the cities as scavengers. People might not recognize this as a very important task, but they serve as the recyclers of the ecosystem themselves. The inspirational tale of Mohammad Saud and Nadeem Shehzad, whose dedication to preserving black kites transcends monetary or personal benefit. In the boys’ words,
“Delhi is a big wound, and we are a tiny Band-Aid on it”
Moreover, the biological laws of natural selection are making these birds even smarter, as evidenced by Nannu, the little child, finding cigarette buds in kite cages. Interestingly, the kites use them as insect repellents. All species learn to adapt to their environments, but as long as the environment gives them time. Climate Change is changing the environment so rapidly that living species don’t have enough time to adapt.
All That Breathes is more than just a local tale; it captures the wider, worldwide effects of urbanization and climate change. The deterioration of Delhi’s environment is a reflection of worldwide patterns of resource exploitation that disregard sustainability.
Dead Kites due to deteriorating air quality of Delhi, one of the Brothers perched next to the wall contemplating their deaths. Photo: Author
The depletion of wildlife populations, rising global temperatures, and environmental devastation are urgent issues that call for coordinated action. The documentary’s global message— that climate change impacts all facets of life on Earth and that everyone must contribute to finding solutions—is communicated by concentrating on the predicament of the black kites.
All That Breathes has breathtaking cinematography— the spectator is drawn into the story by the juxtaposition of close-ups of the damaged kites with sweeping images of Delhi’s busy streets and thick smog. Another dimension is added by the film’s sound design, which creates an eerie atmosphere by fusing the hum of the city with the cries of the birds.
These components give the movie a visceral quality that makes the audience feel the severity of Delhi’s environmental catastrophe.
All That Breathes is more than just a documentary—it is a wake-up call that sheds light on the shared struggles of humans and animals in the face of climate change. Shaunak Sen’s work urges viewers to reconsider their relationship with nature and take meaningful steps to protect the environment.
This documentary is a must-watch for anyone concerned about climate change, wildlife conservation, or the future of urban living. Through a deeply personal story, it delivers a global message: the time to act is now.
Mrug, S., Madan, A., Cook, E. W., & Wright, R. A. (2015). Emotional and physiological desensitization to real-life and movie violence. Journal of youth and adolescence, 44, 1092-1108.
Storytelling and fiction have long been used as a form of communication. It is an intrinsic part of social connection, as evident from ancient scriptures to present-day print media. Storytelling is crucial for the social and emotional aspects of individuals and their cognitive growth. It aids in enhancing human communication and promoting the healthy sharing of knowledge.
The alarming changes in the climate are a significant concern, as their adverse effects are not limited to the environment but also impact human, animal, and plant life. Individuals of all age groups must have sufficient awareness so that collective action can be taken to mitigate these critical effects.
Traditional storytelling combined with innovative approaches can offer an optimistic way to address climate concerns through education and awareness. The majority of the population in suburban and rural areas are either illiterate or not literate enough to comprehend the complex terms and concepts of climate change.
The key element in crafting a story for awareness is meeting emotional standards. Emotional resonance and intellectual engagement make a narrative successful, as society consists of people with varying levels of emotional intelligence and intellectual abilities. Let’s dive into the details of how storytelling differs for different age groups.
Language Use in Storytelling Across Age Groups
We breathe in very polluted air, drink contaminated water, our food is no longer hygienic and our climate is on the verge of destruction. These pressing issues require equally effective communication to raise awareness and inspire individuals to take appropriate action. Storytelling must be tailored to different age groups, as individuals are at various stages of cognitive and emotional development. Crafting motivational narratives encourages individuals to contribute to climate action.
Young Children (3-7 years old)
Young children have a limited vocabulary, so the words used in storytelling should be simple, and an engaging style should be adopted. Incorporating rhyming words and even poems can help reinforce the message. The moral of the story should be clear and easy to practice, such as keeping water clean, planting trees, loving animals, and not littering.
Mid Childhood (8-12 years old)
Children in this age group have an expanded vocabulary and improved cognitive abilities. As they grow, their capacity for understanding complex narratives—such as pollution, renewable energy resources, and global warming, gradually increases. Stories should encourage students to think critically about the consequences of climate change and the necessary steps to address it.
Teenagers (13-18 years old)
Teenagers can be engaged in more meaningful, thought-provoking, and fact-based discussions about climate change. Using real-world examples and current news can emphasize the urgency of the climate crisis, making it feel immediate and relevant. By this age, teenagers have developed personal interests, and incorporating these into storytelling can create a stronger personal connection. Healthy discussions around these stories can lead to potential solutions, especially if the narratives align with their values.
Use of Illustrations in Climate Change Storytelling
Illustrations make complex climate change issues easier to understand by serving as an effective tool for raising awareness and inspiring action. Sometimes, the public struggles to grasp nuanced concepts and visuals can be especially useful in conveying urgent messages.
For young children aged 3–7 years, cartoon-like, playful, and colorful illustrations help make the narrative friendly and easy to comprehend. For example, a happy panda, a sad polar bear, and smiling trees can encourage empathy and a deeper connection with nature.
Adults (19 and above age)
For adults, storytelling about climate change should be grounded in facts and research, as their cognitive abilities allow them to comprehend complex themes. They can also understand the intricacies of politics and economics involved in implementing environmentally friendly projects. The language should aim to inform and inspire self-accountability.
Stories for Climate Change Education by Age Group
Here we present some climate change-themed stories according to different age groups.
Young Children (3-7 years old)
The Tantrum That Saved the World by Megan Herbert & Michael E. Mann
In this story, a young girl meets victims of climate change—animals and humans— and learns how to play an active role in saving them. These climate refugees visit her home after being displaced by environmental disasters. She initially has a tantrum but eventually channels her emotions into action, taking responsibility for making a difference.
The Tantrum That Saved the World by Megan Herbert, Michael E. Mann: 9781623176846 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books
The Last Tree by Emily Haworth-Booth
This is a sensitive story about a community that only realizes the value of trees when they are left with the last one after cutting down many for their settlement in a beautiful forest. They must then decide whether to cut it down for their immediate needs or preserve it for the future.
Moreover, Why Should I Recycle? by Jen Green and Mike Gordon highlights the importance of recycling through an engaging story format. At the same time, Greta and the Giants by Zoë Tucker and Zoe Persico teach children about advocacy for environmental protection.
Older Children (9–12 years old)
The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
A classic story about deforestation and the importance of protecting nature. The Once-ler arrives in a beautiful forest and cuts down Truffula trees despite warnings from the Lorax, who speaks for the trees. When the last tree falls, the Once-ler’s industry collapses. In the end, he entrusts the last Truffula seed to a boy, leaving him with a message to care for nature.
The Lorax: Dr. Seuss Revisited and Revised – Zinn Education Project
Hoot by Carl Hiaasen
It is a mystery-adventure story about Roy Eberhardt, who, along with his friends Mullet Fingers and his stepsister, works to stop an illegal development project to save a colony of endangered burrowing owls.
Earth Heroes by Lily Dyu
This book is a collection of twenty real-life stories of young climate activists who have made a difference. It features profiles of notable figures such as Greta Thunberg, Sir David Attenborough, Isatou Ceesay, and Yin Yuzhen. The story aims to inspire readers through real-world examples of personal dedication and innovative thinking.
Teenagers (13–18 years old)
Dry by Neal Shusterman & Jarrod Shusterman
A dystopian thriller novel about a California drought known as the “Tap-Out” and the devastating consequences of water scarcity. The story follows Alyssa, a teenage girl, who, along with her friends, embarks on a desperate search for water. Their journey turns into a fight for survival as they face dehydration, violent encounters, and moral struggles. The novel powerfully illustrates how extreme circumstances can push people to their limits when resources run out.
Orleans by Sherri L. Smith
This dystopian novel is set on the Gulf Coast, which has been devastated by hurricanes and a deadly disease called Delta Fever. In response, the U.S. government builds a wall to isolate the region from the rest of the country. The story follows Fen de la Guerre, who fights for the safety of her newborn baby sister, and Daniel, a scientist from the Outer States dedicated to finding a cure for Delta Fever. The novel conveys powerful themes of survival, sacrifice, and the resilience of humanity in the face of climate-related adversities.
We Are the Weather Makers by Tim Flannery
The book explores the impact of human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, on global warming and extreme weather conditions. It highlights potential solutions and emphasizes the role of individuals and communities in reducing carbon emissions. Through its message, the book aims to inspire young readers to take action and engage in climate activism.
The Weather Makers – Tim Flannery
Similarly, Carbon Diaries 2015 by Saci Lloyd documents the life of a teenage girl living in an era of carbon rationing.
Adults (19 and above ages)
The Overstory by Richard Powers
A Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, it follows the lives of nine individuals deeply connected to trees. As their stories intertwine, the Novel explores the beauty and resilience of trees while highlighting humanity’s often destructive behavior toward the natural world.
The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson
It is a sci-fi novel that explores how humanity might take necessary steps to address climate change in the future. The Novel begins with a devastating heatwave in India, leading to the creation of a global organization called The Ministry for the Future, which advocates for the planet’s survival. Blending real science, economic strategies, and geopolitical conflicts, the book envisions how the world could unite to tackle the environmental crisis.
Storytelling and fiction have been a fundamental part of human culture for centuries. In the context of climate change education, it simplifies complex concepts, fosters empathy, and strengthens community connections. We can implement storytelling and fiction for climate education by organizing workshops, seminars, and training sessions. The power of narratives can be utilized to educate and mobilize individuals and communities for meaningful action.
“The best arguments in the world won’t change a person’s mind. The only thing that can do that is a good story”. ~Richard Powers
