The Sinking City of Venice
The topic of sea levels rising has been especially popular in the last few years. We always see this term on the news, at school, and on the internet. Many people say the world is at a point of no return. But what is actually going on? How bad is it really? What even is sea level rise?
Sea level rise is the increase in the height of the sea level due to causes like melting glaciers, which are a result of climate change. In the last few years, carbon dioxide emissions have increased drastically, with growth rates tripling since the 1960s, worsening climate change to the point where scientists are begging people to take action. To show just how serious this is, consider the city of Venice, located in northeast Italy. It is known for its history, architecture, but most of all, the canals. Also known as "The Floating City," the primary mode of transportation is on gondolas, which are little boats that are operated by a man holding a big paddle. Considering the vital role water plays in Venice, it's clear that maintaining water levels is crucial. The last time I visited the beautiful city, I vividly remember seeing doors, pathways, and stairs that were left underwater. It gives a sense of uneasiness while also serving as a stark reality check to actually see how the sea level rise is taking its toll on our world.
Some recent news and statistics can help İstanbulites grasp the topic better and put into perspective how bad the situation has gotten. For example, Euronews.com claims that Venice will be underwater by the year 2150! While that may seem far off to students at RC, it's alarming to consider that entire neighborhoods could be submerged. Furthermore, scientists predict that parts of Piazza San Marco, Venice's most famous square, will be under 70 centimeters of water. One of the parts that is most affected is the west side of the city, which has been flooded 58 times between the years 2019 and 2023. Crazy, right? Think of all of the historically significant, one-of-a-kind, beautiful structures and landmarks that we won't be able to see when we're not even 50 years old yet.
So, would you want this incredibly fascinating city–enough for Jeff Bezos to shut it down for his wedding–to be lost underwater? The loss of this city would be devastating, since it is home to so much beautiful architecture and is overflowing with history. Most of all, for the locals, it's all they know; it's their home, so losing it will make a huge impact on their lives.
In fact, Robert College is already doing something to help. Robert College is very environmentally conscious and consistently promotes environmental awareness among its students. The school has recently launched a new website with the help of Mr. Van Bibber from the science department and approximately 25 students, staff, and faculty! The site exemplifies how RC uses regenerative education and has in-class and out-of-the-classroom activities alongside the standard curriculum. Some of these activities include students planting various plants in the garden, being taught about bees by using the bee hives on campus, and even going to Şile and doing a beach clean-up! The school also offers many clubs and initiatives that focus on environmental topics, allowing students to deepen their knowledge on the subject.
Our children and grandchildren should also have the chance to experience this magical city, which is why our generation must take action now. The most important thing about taking action against climate change is to genuinely believe that what you're doing is making a difference; no matter where you are in the world, you should know that what you are doing here in İstanbul is making a difference in Venice, which is over 1,700 kilometers away. So when you go to use your bike instead of a car, feel proud and happy that you're making a difference and helping the world be better. Don't forget that this is a process, so shutting the lights or switching to roll-on instead of spray deodorant won't make an immediate change–but it will make a huge difference in the long run. Instead of thinking "How can my small action make a difference?", remember that collective effort can drive real change. When we start thinking like this, we can turn this whole thing around before it is too late.
However, don't forget that the longer you wait to take action, the higher the sea level will rise, making it harder to return to normal. It's time to take action, and I invite you to help keep this historic city unsubmerged!
