Awakening To Ashes: Confronting the Quiet Collapse of our Planet
TRUTH FOR TOMORROW
by Bluehill
CONTENTS
RENEW LIFE
MELTING POINT
WE WILL
DIE!
If we keep doing what we are doing to our planet, IT WILL END. We are systematically destroying our only home, endangering not just countless other species but our own survival as well. We tell ourselves we aren’t, that the problem is far off, or that someone else will fix it, but we are the ones fueling the destruction. The signs are everywhere— melting ice caps, deforestation, vanishing wildlife, polluted oceans—and yet we continue on, drawing ever closer to the extinction of the human race.
Our actions aren’t just harming the environment; they’re leaving scars that may never heal. Animals suffer as collateral damage in our relentless pursuit of convenience. Forests, oceans, and entire ecosystems are sacrificed so that we can have more plastic, fast fashion, cheap goods, and luxuries that we don’t even need. How would you feel if your life was taken away for the sake of another species? Imagine suffocating in plastic, being hunted down for your skin, or living in constant fear because your home is shrinking every day. This is the reality for countless animals as we exploit the Earth without a second thought.
We are all part of this cycle, whether we like it or not. The choices we make each day—what we consume, how we live, what we prioritize shape the future of this planet. Every piece of plastic we throw away, every tree we cut down, every species we drive to extinction is a step closer to our own demise. Think about the consequences of the actions you take part in daily. What we do now will either protect or endanger the future of our species, and the window to make a difference is rapidly closing.
It’s time to wake up. Our fate is in our hands.
Have you ever used a plastic straw or anything that could harm animals, especially sea creatures? On the surface, something as small as a plastic straw might seem harmless, but when discarded, it often ends up in our oceans, where it can persist for hundreds of years. Sea turtles, for example, can mistake plastic for food, leading to choking, blockages, or even starvation. The same happens to other marine life like birds, fish, and mammals, many of which die from entanglement or ingestion of plastic debris. Over 100,000 marine animals die each year from plastic pollution alone, and microplastics now enter the food chain, impacting not only wildlife but humans as well.
Plastic straws are just one part of the problem. Consider the broader effects of human actions like hunting, fishing, and industrial farming. Overfishing is driving marine populations to dangerously low levels, often wiping out entire species. Massive fishing nets indiscriminately kill sea turtles, dolphins, and other unintended species as bycatch. Hunting, once necessary for survival, has now pushed many species toward extinction—rhinos, elephants, and big cats are hunted for their tusks and skins, all for human consumption and trade. Habitat destruction from deforestation and urban sprawl only adds to the problem, displacing countless animals and driving them to extinction.
by chemicals, and even mammals become trapped in discarded fishing lines or six-pack rings. Pollution—whether of air, water, or soil—compounds these issues. Industrial pollutants, fertilizers, and toxic chemicals enter our water systems, leading to poisoned drinking water, dead zones in oceans, and massive loss of biodiversity.
Deforestation also plays a critical role. Forests, the planet’s “lungs,” are being wiped out for agriculture, logging, and urban development. This not only destroys wildlife habitats but also accelerates climate change, releasing vast amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. The result? More frequent extreme weather events, floods, droughts, and rising sea levels—all of which further destabilize the ecosystems we depend on.
WHAT YOU DONE
Then there’s littering—an act that seems minor but is catastrophic in scale. Every piece of trash tossed carelessly eventually finds its way to ecosystems, harming animals directly through ingestion or entanglement. Birds mistake plastic for food, fish are poisoned
Each of these actions—whether it’s littering, hunting, polluting, or deforestation—drives us closer to environmental collapse. Humans are pushing ecosystems past their breaking points, endangering countless species and ultimately ourselves. We are deeply connected to the planet, and by damaging
it, we are jeopardizing our future. Our survival depends on the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the biodiversity that keeps ecosystems functioning. Every piece of plastic we use, every tree we cut down, every animal we kill weakens these systems.
If we don’t change our ways, we will not only lose the planet’s beauty and diversity, but we will also face severe consequences for our own species. It’s not too late to turn the tide, but we must act quickly. The future of the planet—and humanity—depends on the choices we make now. If we don’t act, the damage we are inflicting will become irreversible, and future generations will inherit a world vastly different from the one we know today—a world where resources are scarce, ecosystems are depleted, and extreme weather events are the norm. The beauty and diversity of our planet, which have taken millions of years to evolve, could vanish in a matter of decades, leaving behind barren landscapes, polluted waters, and an atmosphere that is increasingly hostile to life. The consequences won’t just be environmental; they will be social and
economic as well. As ecosystems collapse, food and water shortages will become more frequent, leading to widespread famine and conflict over dwindling resources. Entire communities, particularly those in vulnerable regions, will be displaced by rising sea levels, desertification, and natural disasters. Climate refugees—people forced to flee their homes due to environmental changes—will become a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale.
Our health will also be severely impacted. Pollution, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity increase the likelihood of new diseases spreading, as we’ve seen with recent pandemics that arise from wildlife habitat destruction.
HAVE DONE !?
As air and water quality deteriorate, respiratory illnesses and waterborne diseases will become more common. The strain on global healthcare systems will be immense, further widening the gap between the rich and the poor.
Yet, there is hope. We have the knowledge and the tools to reverse some of the damage we’ve caused.
Renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power offer alternatives to fossil fuels that are driving climate change.
By transitioning to a sustainable, low-carbon economy, we can drastically reduce our carbon footprint and slow the warming of the planet.
The future of the planet—and the fate of humanity—depends on us. If we dont change it we will end up like the dinosaurs EXTINCT, and I speak on behalf of everybody here, nobody wants to be extinct.
PLASTIC PLANET
PLASTIC PLANET
THEY ARE TRAPPED
Look at this fish—he’s not living his best life. He’s trapped, suffocating, and slowly dying because of our actions. This small creature, like so many others, is the victim of our carelessness, our disregard for the environment. The fish is caught in a plastic glove, an object casually tossed aside by a human, now a death trap in the water. Imagine the struggle it went through, twisting and turning, fighting with all its might to break free, gasping for life in a situation it didn’t cause. But despite its
efforts, the truth is heartbreaking: the fish was unsuccessful and died, ensnared by something so simple and avoidable as a piece of trash.
Now, take a moment to reflect—how would you feel if this were you? Imagine being trapped, confined in a plastic glove or bag for the rest of your life, unable to move, breathe, or even call for help. Every second would feel like an eternity of suffering, your life slipping away because of
something as thoughtless as littering. It wouldn’t be nice—it would be terrifying. You’d be suffocating in a prison not of your making, powerless to escape, while the world goes on, oblivious to your struggle.
This is the reality for countless animals caught in our waste every day. What seems like a small, harmless item to us can become a deadly trap for wildlife. We may not see it firsthand, but our actions ripple through the environment, impacting creatures that have no part in our lifestyle, yet pay the price for our convenience. Every piece of plastic thrown away carelessly, every glove, bottle, or bag that ends up in the ocean, is a potential death sentence for animals like this fish.
We need to ask ourselves: is this the legacy we want to leave? A world where innocent creatures suffer and die because of our negligence? It’s time we start taking responsibility for the harm we’re causing. Simple actions like reducing waste, disposing of trash properly, and opting for eco-friendly alternatives can make a world of difference. We must act now to prevent more needless suffering and protect the lives of all creatures who share this planet with us. The consequences of our inaction reach far beyond just wildlife, impacting entire ecosystems and even our own health. Every piece of waste we discard pollutes the land, air, and seas, disrupting the balance that sustains all life. If we continue, it won’t just be animals suffering—humans will face the consequences, with pollution entering our food and water, and climate change causing disasters that affect millions. Protecting the environment isn’t just about preventing harm to other species; it’s about ensuring a livable future for ourselves. The time to act is now, before it’s too late. The consequences of our inaction are far-reaching, impacting not only wildlife but entire ecosystems that sustain life on Earth, including our own.
WE ARE IN PLASTIC
We are drowning—literally and figuratively—in plastic. To be exact, there are 8.3 billion tons of plastic waste scattered across our planet. This staggering amount is enough to cover the entire surface of the Earth with plastic, and the problem only continues to grow. Plastic waste is not just an eyesore; it’s an environmental catastrophe unfolding in real time. Our oceans, once pristine, are now home to an estimated 15–51 trillion pieces of plastic debris. No matter where you look, not a single square mile of ocean surface is free from the scourge of plastic pollution. It floats on the surface, sinks to the depths, and has even made its way to remote regions like the Arctic, proving that no corner of the Earth is untouched by our waste.
The scale of this issue is difficult to grasp. Imagine the total amount of plastic ever produced—8.3 billion tons. That’s equivalent to 25,000 Empire State Buildings worth of plastic, created, used, and largely discarded without thought for the consequences. Plastic doesn’t decompose like natural materials; it simply breaks down into smaller pieces, which continue to pollute the environment for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. This vast sea of waste endangers marine life, poisons ecosystems, and eventually makes its way back into our food and water. Micro plastics, invisible to the naked eye, are now present in fish, shellfish, and even in the salt we use at our tables. Every piece of plastic ever made still exists in some form, and much of it is sitting in landfills, drifting through the oceans,
or littering our landscapes. If we do not take immediate action to reduce plastic use, recycle what we can, and invest in sustainable alternatives, the amount of plastic waste will continue to accumulate, making the future of the planet increasingly uncertain. The sheer magnitude of this problem demands attention—it’s not just a distant environmental issue; it affects all of us, every day. The question we must ask ourselves is: how much more plastic will it take before we’re forced to confront the full impact of our disposable lifestyle?
The time to act is now. Governments, corporations, and individuals must collaborate to implement comprehensive strategies aimed at reducing plastic production and improving waste management. Innovative solutions—such as biodegradable materials, effective recycling technologies, and community clean-up initiatives—are vital in combating this crisis. Education and awareness are equally essential; we must inspire a cultural shift that prioritizes sustainability and environmental stewardship. If we can rally together to address this pressing issue, we may still have a chance to turn the tide and protect our planet for future generations. The responsibility lies with each of us to be mindful of our consumption habits and to advocate for meaningful change. Together, we can create a world where our oceans are free from plastic and the beauty of nature can thrive once more.
NEW OXYGEN
Welcome our new oxygen—the substance that most countries produce more of every day. Our skies, once blue and clear, are now often covered with a thick haze that dims the sun and obscures the beauty of the natural world. This is not the oxygen we need to survive; instead, it’s a toxic cocktail of pollutants that threatens both our health and our environment. Countries like China and Japan are particularly affected, facing severe air quality issues that impact millions of people daily.
Imagine waking up to a sky that should be vibrant and alive, only to find it shrouded in dark clouds of smog and smoke. Residents in these regions should be able to see the sun, admire the changing colors of the sky, and breathe in fresh, clean air. Instead, they are often met with a suffocating blanket of pollution that can cause immediate health problems and long-term respiratory issues. Children play in streets filled with hazardous air, and the elderly struggle to breathe in an atmosphere that should sustain them.
Our lungs are made for oxygen, not smoke or pollution. When we inhale contaminated air, we expose ourselves to harmful chemicals that can lead to serious health problems, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, and even lung cancer. The body’s natural defenses become overwhelmed, struggling to filter out particles that should never have entered our environment in the first place. It’s a
public health crisis that affects not just those living in heavily polluted areas but has far-reaching consequences for global health as well.
Moreover, the impact of air pollution extends beyond individual health. It contributes to climate change, disrupts ecosystems, and harms wildlife.
The pollutants released into the air can settle on land and water, affecting food supplies and endangering biodiversity. As our planet warms, the consequences of pollution become increasingly severe, resulting in more frequent natural disasters, erratic weather patterns, and diminished resources for future generations.
It is vital that we address this issue with urgency and determination. Governments, industries, and individuals must work together to reduce emissions, transition to cleaner energy sources, and promote sustainable practices. Investing in green technologies and implementing stricter regulations on air quality can help restore our skies and, ultimately, our health. We need to advocate for policies that prioritize clean air and renewable energy, ensuring that our children inherit a planet where they can breathe
Global Exposure:
In 2019, 99% of the world’s population lived in areas that did not meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) air quality guidelines.
Premature Deaths:
Indoor and outdoor air pollution is estimated to cause approximately 6.7 million premature deaths each year, according to WHO.
Air Quality Index:
Approximately 91% of the world’s population lives in places where air quality exceeds WHO guideline limits.
Particulate Matter:
About 99.82% of the global land area is exposed to levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) that exceed safe limits, as noted in recent studies.
OUR NEW
In 2019, 99% of the world’s population lived in areas that did not meet the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines. This staggering statistic highlights a global health crisis that demands our immediate attention. The combination of indoor and outdoor air pollution is estimated to cause 6.7 million premature deaths each year, a toll that surpasses many of the world’s most devastating diseases. This isn’t just a statistic; it represents the loss of lives, families, and futures cut short due to something as basic as the air we breathe.
A new study on global daily levels of air pollution reveals a sobering truth: hardly anywhere on Earth is safe from unhealthy air. About 99.82% of the global land area is exposed to levels of particulate matter that exceed safe limits, leading to serious health repercussions. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, is linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and a host of other health issues. The very air that is supposed to sustain life is, in many cases, doing the opposite, contributing to chronic illnesses that plague communities worldwide.
The impacts of poor air quality extend far beyond immediate health concerns. Economies suffer when workforces are burdened by illness, healthcare systems become overwhelmed, and productivity
The economic cost of air pollution is estimated to be around $5 trillion annually in welfare costs, with air pollution contributing significantly to healthcare costs and lost productivity.
Health Impacts:
Air pollution is linked to an estimated 29% of all deaths from lung cancer, 24% of all deaths from stroke, and 25% of all deaths from heart disease.
Children’s Vulnerability:
An estimated 600,000 children under the age of 15 die from respiratory infections linked to indoor and outdoor air pollution every year.
Regional Differences:
In 2020, air pollution levels were highest in South Asia, with cities like Delhi, India, consistently ranking among the most polluted in the world, often exceeding PM2.5 levels of 100 µg/m³, which is significantly higher than the WHO’s recommended limit of 10 µg/m³.
NEW OXYGEN
declines. Children are particularly vulnerable, with exposure to polluted air linked to developmental issues, diminished cognitive function, and long-term health problems. Furthermore, marginalized communities often bear the brunt of pollution, exacerbating existing inequalities and leaving them with fewer resources to cope with the consequences.
Addressing this crisis requires urgent and coordinated action at all levels—from individuals to governments. We need to advocate for stricter air quality regulations, support the transition to renewable energy sources, and promote sustainable urban planning that prioritizes clean air. Investing in public transportation, green spaces, and emissionsreducing technologies can help mitigate the effects of air pollution and create healthier environments for all.
Public awareness is crucial; people must understand the risks associated with poor air quality and how they can make a difference. Simple actions, like reducing vehicle use, opting for energy-efficient appliances, and supporting policies that promote clean air, can collectively lead to significant change.
It’s clear that we cannot afford to ignore this issue any longer. The health of our planet and its inhabitants hangs in the balance. The time to act is now, before we reach a tipping point from which we may never recover.
RENEW LIFE
RENEW LIFE
THE BIG LIGHT
The big light, yes, that one—the sun. It’s our source of renewal and life. We can harness the sun’s energy through solar panels, transforming its light into usable electricity. This renewable energy source generates power at little to no cost once the initial investment is made. Solar energy is clean and sustainable, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. By utilizing solar panels, households and businesses can lower their electricity bills while contributing to a healthier planet.
Moreover, solar energy is incredibly versatile. It can be deployed on rooftops, integrated into building materials, or used in large solar farms that feed energy directly into the grid. With advancements in technology, solar panels have become more efficient and affordable, making them accessible to a broader range of consumers. Governments and organizations around the world are also beginning to recognize the potential of solar energy, offering incentives and subsidies to encourage adoption.
Despite its many advantages, solar energy does come with some challenges. The effectiveness of solar panels is largely dependent on the availability and intensity of sunlight, meaning regions with less sun exposure may not benefit as much. Additionally, solar panels require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal performance, particularly in dusty or polluted areas. The initial costs of purchasing and installing solar panels can be high, though prices have been steadily declining as technology advances and economies of scale come into play.
Yet, the benefits of solar energy far outweigh these drawbacks. By investing in solar technology, we are taking significant steps toward energy independence and resilience. Solar power reduces our reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating the environmental impact of energy production. As we transition toward a cleaner energy future, solar energy can play a crucial role in powering homes, businesses, and even electric vehicles.
Furthermore, solar energy has the potential to stimulate economic growth. The solar industry creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance, contributing to local economies and fostering a skilled workforce. As more communities adopt solar energy, they can become less vulnerable to fluctuations in energy prices and the volatility of global energy markets.
In summary, while there are challenges associated with solar energy, the path forward is bright. By harnessing the sun’s power, we can create a sustainable, clean energy future that benefits both people and the planet. The continued investment in solar technology is essential for combating climate change, promoting economic development, and ensuring a livable environment for future generations. As we embrace this renewable resource, we move one step closer to a healthier, more sustainable world.
OUR LIFELINE
We are on the verge of flatlining; we need help, we need a lifeline. Renewable energy is energy that comes from natural sources that are replenished faster than they are consumed. Examples include wind, sunlight, water, and heat from the Earth. These renewable energy sources are vital to addressing climate change because they produce significantly lower emissions than fossil fuels. Fossil fuels, like coal, oil, and gas, take millions of years to form and release harmful greenhouse gases when burned, contributing to the climate crisis and air pollution.
In 2023, renewable energy made up 30% of the world’s power mix, a remarkable increase from just 10% in 2010. This growth can be attributed to falling production costs for solar and wind power, along with ambitious policies aimed at transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
Moreover, as technological advancements continue to improve efficiency and storage capabilities, we are moving closer to a future where renewable energy can power our homes, industries, and transportation systems without reliance on fossil fuels. The urgency of the climate crisis makes it clear: investing in renewable energy is not just a choice; it’s a necessity for a sustainable and prosperous future. By continuing to embrace these clean energy sources, we can not only avert the worst impacts of climate change but also foster resilience in our communities and economies, paving the way for a healthier planet for generations to come. Transitioning to renewable energy can create new job opportunities, stimulate local economies, and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Furthermore, investing in clean technologies enhances energy security and mitigates the volatility of energy prices, making our communities more resilient in the face of global disruptions.
MELTING POINT
MELTING
OUR FRIENDS
Our poor friends in the Arctic won’t have a habitat to thrive in; extinction will grow ever closer for them. The rapid loss of sea ice, a critical component of their ecosystem, threatens not just the polar bears and seals, but an entire web of life that relies on this fragile environment. As temperatures rise, some species will struggle to find nutritious food that fits their existing gut biomes. For instance, pollinators, which play a
Now imagine if that was us. What if we faced the same stark reality—struggling to find food, losing our homes, and battling for survival in a world that no longer accommodates us? We’re not far off from experiencing it ourselves. As climate change accelerates, we are already witnessing extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and disruptions to food supplies. Communities around the world are grappling
EXTINCTION INEVITABLE
Climate change is not just a distant threat; it is a clear and present danger, driving deadly heatwaves, vanishing glaciers, and collapsing ecosystems. The warming of our oceans is fueling more frequent and intense wildfires, eroding coastlines, and contributing to the extinction of species that cannot adapt quickly enough to survive in their changing environments. Mega-storms, once considered rare, are now becoming more common and devastating, while food insecurity worsens as droughts, floods, and unpredictable weather patterns disrupt agricultural systems. Rising sea levels are already threatening coastal cities, displacing communities, and turning millions into
climate refugees. If these trends continue unchecked, we are rapidly approaching irreversible tipping points with catastrophic global consequences.
The potential impacts of climate change on human civilization are dire. Extreme heat could render vast regions of the planet uninhabitable, creating a migration crisis on a scale never seen before. Food and water shortages will become more widespread, exacerbated by failing crops, dried-up rivers, and depleted groundwater reserves. As these essential resources dwindle, competition for survival could spark wars, destabilizing nations and leading to societal collapse. The infrastructure of modern life—
EXTINCTION INEVITABLE
healthcare, supply chains, and governance—could crumble under the weight of these pressures.
Ecosystem collapse would not only result in the extinction of countless species but would also destabilize the very resources that humans rely on. From the pollinators that ensure our crops grow to the forests that act as carbon sinks and regulate climate, the intricate balance of nature is essential to our survival. If ecosystems fail, the ripple effects would devastate food systems, freshwater supplies, and biodiversity, triggering a cascade of crises that humans cannot easily mitigate.
As temperatures rise, warming climates will expand the range of deadly viruses and disease
outbreaks, increasing the likelihood of pandemics. Diseases once confined to tropical regions could spread to new areas, putting unprepared populations at risk. With weakened healthcare systems and overstretched global resources, humanity may find itself vulnerable to a new era of global health crises.
But perhaps the greatest threat comes from the crossing of critical climate tipping points. These are thresholds in Earth’s systems that, once breached, could trigger unstoppable feedback loops, leading to runaway global warming.
Awakening To Ashes: Confronting the Quiet Collapse of our Planet
TRUTH FOR TOMORROW
This zine was created to evoke a deep sense of fear and urgency about the critical issues driving humanity toward its downfall. Through powerful imagery and unsettling information, we aim to confront the reality that we are in grave danger—yet remain disturbingly complacent. We know the truth: we are at the heart of this crisis, our actions are driving it, and we can see the destruction all around us, yet we fail to take meaningful action. We turn a blind eye to the devastation we’ve caused, continuing with “business as usual,” as if everything will somehow resolve itself.
But the harsh reality is that it’s too late to reverse much of the damage we’ve already done. Ice caps are melting, species are dying, and ecosystems are collapsing right before our eyes. The clock is ticking, and every moment wasted in denial or indifference brings us closer to irreversible consequences. We can’t keep waiting for change tomorrow, because by then it may be too late. The time for action is now. We must face the uncomfortable truth, make drastic changes today, and fight for a future while we still have a chance. Every delay, every excuse, is one step closer to sealing our fate. This zine is a wake-up call—make a difference now, or watch as the world spirals beyond our control.
Make a difference, change today instead of tomorrow because tomorrow it may be too late...