Climate change is no longer a distant threat. Global average temperature has started increasing, affecting us in the way we live, work, and breathe. Cases of rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting ecosystems are becoming more common around the world.

From stronger storms to unpredictable rainfall, the impact of climate change is being felt everywhere. While many people recognize it as a global issue, there’s often a misconception that it’s mainly up to governments or large organisations to take action.
Climate change affects all of us and so do our daily habits. For instance, in Singapore, something as simple as increased air conditioning use during hotter months contributes to higher energy demand and carbon emissions.
Here are nine ways how climate change is affecting us, and what we can do to make a difference.

1. Hotter Temperatures and Rising Energy

Our days are getting warmer, and this means we often rely on air conditioning more than ever. In urban areas like Singapore, temperatures can feel even hotter due to the urban heat island effect where natural land cover is replaced by buildings and roads that absorb and retain heat. This added warmth increases our dependence on cooling appliances, leading to higher energy bills and greater electricity consumption.

During peak periods, the surge in energy demand can also strain the power grid, increasing the risk of blackouts. Additionally, the rising heat can make outdoor activities less enjoyable and even unsafe during the hottest parts of the day.

To help address this, the government is encouraging households to switch to energy-efficient appliances. Incentives are provided especially for lower-income families. This helps to make these upgrades more affordable.

2. More Frequent and Heavy Rainstorms

We now see stronger, heavier rainstorms that sometimes lead to flash floods. These sudden downpours can disrupt traffic, cause temporary flooding in neighbourhoods, and make every day travel more challenging.

Even though Singapore continues to upgrade and expand its drainage systems, these efforts may not be enough if extreme weather events become more frequent and severe. It’s a clear reminder that our weather is changing often in ways we’re not used to and highlights the need for long-term adaptation strategies.

3. Changes in Rainfall Patterns

Not only are rainstorms getting heavier, but the overall pattern of rainfall is shifting. Some areas experience longer dry spells, while others get sudden bursts of intense rain. These abrupt downpours can overwhelm drainage systems and lead to flash floods, especially in urban areas with limited green space.

Such changes not only affect water supply but also challenge how we manage our infrastructure and natural resources, making water conservation and flood preparedness more important than ever.

4. Impact on Local Food and Price

Climate change affects farms and food production around the world. In Singapore, where more than 90% of our food is imported, extreme weather in other countries can disrupt crop yields, leading to shortages and higher prices locally. Even though Singapore is working to increase local food production through initiatives like urban farming, we remain heavily dependent on global supply chains.

Small increases in global temperatures can lead to changes in rainfall patterns, droughts, or floods, all of which affect crop growth in food-exporting countries. This means that even the food on our plates is vulnerable to the far-reaching effects of climate change.

5. Rising Sea Levels Affecting Coastal Areas

Being a low-lying island city, Singapore is especially vulnerable to the effects of rising sea levels. Even a small rise can increase the risk of coastal flooding during high tides or heavy rain. To address this, the government is actively investing in long-term flood protection measures.

For example, the Coastal and Flood Protection Fund has been set up with an initial $5 billion to support such efforts. Under this fund, plans are underway to build sea walls, raise coastal roads, and explore nature-based solutions like mangrove restoration to protect our coastlines. These initiatives are part of an integrated approach to safeguard our communities and infrastructure from future climate risks.

6. More Health Challenges from Heat and Pollution

As temperatures climb, heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion become more common. Additionally, warmer temperatures cause pollen seasons to last longer, which can worsen air quality and lead to more respiratory issues for people with asthma or allergies.

Outdoor air pollution, especially from the burning of fossil fuels, also contributes to poor air quality, increasing the risk of respiratory diseases and inflammation. These combined effects put a strain on both our personal health and public health systems.

7. Increase in Pests and Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

Warmer weather creates a favourable environment for pests like mosquitoes and other insects. In Singapore, higher temperatures and increased rainfall during warmer months contribute to a rise in mosquito populations, especially the Aedes mosquito, which spreads dengue fever.

As a result, dengue cases tend to spike during these periods, posing a serious public health concern. This makes it even more important for communities to stay vigilant, eliminate stagnant water, and take preventive measures to reduce mosquito breeding.

8. Shifts in Local Ecosystems and Biodiversity

Climate change affects the plants and animals in our surroundings by altering the conditions they need to survive. Changes in temperature can shift the growing seasons for plants or force animals to migrate to cooler areas.

For example, rising temperatures may cause certain flowers to bloom earlier than usual, disrupting the life cycle of pollinators like bees that rely on them for food. Similarly, changes in rainfall patterns can dry up wetlands or flood nesting areas, making it harder for some species to survive. These disruptions can lead to a loss of biodiversity, meaning that the parks, gardens, and natural spaces we enjoy today may look very different in the future.

9. Economic Impact and Changes in Daily Life

From agriculture to tourism, many industries feel the effects of climate change. Unpredictable weather and natural disasters can lead to economic disruptions that affect jobs and business operations. These changes trickle down to our daily lives, influencing everything from food prices to travel plans.

In addition to economic impacts, climate change is also affecting mental health. Many people, especially younger generations, experience stress and anxiety related to the future of the planet, a phenomenon known as eco-anxiety. This emotional burden highlights how climate change extends beyond physical and economic effects, shaping our mental and emotional well-being as well.

What We Can Do to Make a Difference

Although climate change is a global challenge, our everyday actions can make a real difference. In Singapore, simple habits can help reduce our environmental impact.

• Start by cutting down on energy use: Set air-conditioners to 25°C or higher, switch off appliances when not in use, and choose energy-efficient devices. Use public transport, cycle, or walk instead of driving to reduce emissions.
• Reduce food waste: Buy only what you need, support local produce, and store food properly. Composting scraps, even on a small scale, can also help.
• Save water: Do this by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and using water-saving fixtures.
• Reuse and recycle items when possible and bring your own bags and containers to reduce plastic waste.
• Support eco-friendly businesses and policies like the Singapore Green Plan. Don’t underestimate the power of raising awareness—talk to others, share tips, and encourage sustainable habits at home, work, and school. 

A Growing Call for Climate Action

As we see the effects of climate change in our communities, there is a need for a stronger push for action. Governments, businesses, and individuals all need to work together to reduce carbon emissions and adopt greener practices. This collective effort in reducing waste or saving energy helps build a better future.