Meet Alexander von Humboldt, the First Person to Understand Climate Change—More Than Two Centuries Ago
Alexander von Humboldt, a pioneering scientist born in 1769, was one of the first individuals to raise concerns about the environment. His work has been rediscovered and embraced by the young climate strikers who have demanded action on climate change since the late 2010s.
Humboldt’s observations and analysis during his scientific exploration of Latin America in the early 1800s led him to warn about climate change caused by deforestation and monoculture plantations. He understood the interconnectedness of nature and advocated for sustainable practices.
Humboldt recognized the negative impact of human activity on the climate. He observed the consequences of reckless deforestation, including dried-up springs, violent floods, and the loss of fertile agricultural land. His observations at Lake Valencia in Venezuela shaped his understanding of human-induced climate change.
Humboldt's holistic understanding of the natural world and his call for global stewardship set him apart. He warned against the careless exploitation of resources and championed a comprehensive understanding of the geography of plants. Humboldt's work was widely recognized during his time, and he remains a significant figure in the scientific community.
Although Humboldt is less known to the general public today, his legacy lives on through academic institutions and the ongoing exploration of his extensive correspondence network. His name is still associated with numerous places around the world.
Locations named after Humboldt, such as Humboldt County in California, face environmental challenges. Rising sea levels pose a threat to coastal communities, but there is also potential for offshore wind energy projects to mitigate these challenges. The development of renewable energy resources will play a crucial role in addressing climate change.
As the world faces the urgent need to reduce emissions and combat global warming, young climate strikers and their demand for action are more important than ever. Scientists warn that time is running out, and the collapse of ecosystems and civilizations is a real possibility. Inspired by Humboldt’s legacy, young activists like Greta Thunberg continue to remind us that activism can make a difference.
Alexander von Humboldt’s pioneering work as an environmental scientist and his understanding of the interconnectedness of nature offer valuable lessons for today’s climate strikers. By rediscovering Humboldt’s ideas and incorporating them into their movement, young activists can continue to raise awareness and drive action on climate change. The urgency to act is clear, and the legacy of Humboldt serves as a reminder that everyone has a role to play in creating a sustainable future.
🔭 This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.
