Climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions from human activity - use of fossil fuels, deforestation, agriculture, industrialization - is a threat multiplier. There is deforestation at the rate of 18 football fields per minute, water scarcity looming for half of the world's population, and pollution where 91% of plastic made is never recycled. Many scientists agree that species loss rates far exceed natural levels, indicating that a sixth mass extinction event is already underway. Unlike previous mass extinctions caused by natural phenomena (like volcanic activity), the current one is driven by human activities. A 2018 study (PNAS) showed that humans and livestock account for roughly 96% of total mammal biomass, with wild mammals making up only 4%. As ecosystems lose biodiversity (habitats and species), they become less resilient (e.g. disasters, disease, poverty, conflict) and capable of providing essential services and resources (like clean water, air, and fertile soil) that humanity needs for survival.

Disasters are more frequent, long lasting and severe - from devastating floods and soil erosion (Memorial Day 2015), drought and wildfires (Bastrop 2011), heat and cold waves (Uri 2021), and violent storms (Hurricane Harvey 2017), leading to deaths (thousands), economic costs (trillions in the U.S.), and displacement. Consistent years that exceed 1.5C above pre-industrial levels (Paris Agreement) is the threshold for catastrophic impacts like widespread coral reef loss, sea-level rise, forest fires, and melting of ice. 2024 was the hottest year worldwide and the first year at 1.5C above pre-industrial levels. DFW is the 3rd U.S. city with growing urban heat islands and disadvantaged areas are +12ºF hotter than other areas.