Dangers of Our Planet (part I)

Mother Nature is facing serious threats. For this list a look at those all-too-real threats that are plaguing the Earth right now. And if left unchecked, could spell catastrophe for the world as we know it.

Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

WMDs are an addition to the global arsenal that could make wars and terrorism even more deadly, whether through nuclear, biological, chemical or another threat. The Non-Proliferation Treaty was created to stem the spread of such weapons; however, some countries with nuclear capabilities are not signatories. Should an atomic weapon ever be used, the ensuing nuclear winter would be as devastating and difficult to survive as the bomb itself.

Pollution/Landfills

We were raised to reduce, reuse, recycle; but pollution remains a threat. Chemicals enter the earth, air and water from garbage in landfills. Electronic waste is an intensifying issue, as discarded cell phones or computers leach lead, mercury or toxins. Meanwhile, excessive artificial light causes light pollution. And mismanaged disposal of radioactive waste by nuclear power plants or medical research facilities causes massive environmental problems, as well.

Pandemic

There already exist infectious diseases that spread through the global community; from cholera and H1N1 to HIV/AIDS – the 1918 flu pandemic alone killed 3-5% of the world’s population. While these highly contagious illnesses proved devastating, they are nothing compared to a pandemic that could wipe out humanity altogether. We invented ways to combat such ailments; but that same industriousness could also be our downfall: between drug-resistant bacteria and weaponized viruses, our safety is not guaranteed.

Global Economic Collapse

A nation’s economic problems affect more than just that country. The 20th century’s worst decline, the Great Depression, began in the U.S. but spread worldwide. The Eurozone crisis, which began in 2009, is an example of how it can happen today. In fact, many experts suggest we are on course for another economic breakdown. If that’s the case, we can expect anarchy and the failure of law and order.

Ocean System Collapse

Forces like overfishing, pollution, ocean acidification, a rise in sea temperature, and oil spills damage the world’s oceans. But if the world’s ocean systems were to collapse, more than the fishing and tourism industries would be devastated: coral reefs, marine life and several endangered species could face catastrophe in that scenario. Plus, since the oceans help balance the planet’s oxygen and carbon dioxide, they are vital to the Earth’s survival.