UN State of Global Climate 2025: We Start and Return to Nature-Ice Formations in Munising

Munising Ice
Formation 1

Nature is where we begin, and ultimately where we return. In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, nature is a defining part of life—wild, open, and often untouched. Wildlife moves freely, the water remains clean, and people tend to reflect that same grounded, good-natured character.

At the same time, global climate change is affecting every corner of the planet, including places like this. While alternative energy sources are part of the solution, they are still developing and may not yet fully meet our growing energy demands. That’s why pursuing multiple forms of energy independence—both at the regional level and at home—can be a practical path forward.

I recently spent time in Munising, about an hour north of Escanaba, capturing some winter scenes. Much of the area is closed this time of year, but a few spots remain accessible. The ice formations are especially striking, and some even attract ice climbers tackling the more challenging routes—something I’d like to try myself, given my climbing background.

We all share a responsibility to protect nature, and there are real—often overlooked—costs when we fail to do so. While the need for affordable energy is clear, so is the importance of sustainability and energy diversity. (Global Climate and the UP)

As an amateur photographer, I’m happy to share my work. If you’re interested in any of the photos, feel free to reach out with what you’re looking for, and I can arrange printing and provide a quote. Color of sky is not great. 

Munising Ice Formation 2

WMO State of the Global Climate 2025:

• greenhouse gas concentrations (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O) reached record highs, with CO₂ at 423.9 ppm in 2024—the highest in at least 2 million years
• global mean temperature in 2025 was about 1.43°C above pre-industrial levels, making it the second or third warmest year on record
• the past decade (2015–2025) represents the ten warmest years ever recorded
• oceans absorbed about 91% of excess heat, with ocean heat content reaching record highs for nine consecutive years
• sea level has risen about 11 cm since 1993, with the rate of increase accelerating in recent years
• ocean acidification continues, with global surface pH steadily declining due to CO₂ absorption

  

  Munising Ice Formation 3

• glaciers are experiencing significant mass loss, with most of the worst years occurring since 2016
• Arctic and Antarctic sea ice extent remain well below historical averages, with multiple record lows in recent years
• Earth’s energy imbalance is increasing, meaning more heat is being trapped in the climate system
• climate change is contributing to cascading impacts such as food insecurity, displacement, biodiversity loss, and increased extreme weather events

APA reference:
World Meteorological Organization. (2026). State of the global climate 2025 (WMO-No. 1391). https://doi.org/10.59327/WMO/S/CRI/SOC1