The cult HBO TV series Game of Thrones is a classic high fantasy tale with political intrigue, beheadings, dragons and mad kings. But is it really all that fantastical? It could be said that the underlying theme of "winter is coming" actually refers to the real world plight of our warming planet. In fact, the author of the series George R. R. Martin admits he borrowed some ideas from climate change. Intrigued? Let’s look at the story that underlines Game of Thrones.

The ghostly zombie like creatures with glowing blue eyes known as the White Walkers have the ability to change the weather and are a threat to all humanity. In a nutshell they are the embodiment of climate change.

Now let’s imagine the ignorant noble houses such as the Lannisters and the Baratheons are our beloved world leaders and politicians. The similarities are uncanny. These noble families live in a world of denial and continue to debate the very existence of the White Walkers as they focus on their own power struggles. They live in a sheltered, privileged world where they believe they are protected from winter’s cold clutches.  All too similar to some of our real world leaders and their resistance to take real action against the impacts of climate change.

Now for the Wildlings - the impoverished outcasts who live beyond the wall, they represent those living in poverty. The marginalised Wildlings live in the far north on the frontline of the White Walkers invasion, out of sight and out of mind from the noble families in their castles down south. This is similar to the real life people who live in developing countries and are on the frontline of climate change. 

As the Game of Thrones series progresses it becomes obvious that the White Walkers are no longer just a deniable "threat beyond the wall," but an immediate reality with an invading army ready to cause damage. Climate change is no longer a problem that we may face in the very distant future, it is very real. In fact, it’s already here and in many parts of the world people are already experiencing its effects. 

Despite being the ones to have contributed least to climate change, Australia’s closest neighbours in the Pacific Islands are increasingly vulnerable to unpredictable extreme weather patterns and rising tides threatening their homes, livelihoods and food security.

The Australian Government is still shirking its responsibility when it comes to taking action to curb Australia’s carbon pollution and creating a safe climate for all. Per person, Australia is one of the biggest emitters of greenhouse gases. Internationally the world has agreed to limit warming to 2 degrees celsius. This will only be possible if Australia and other big polluters such as China and the US reduce their carbon pollution and reach zero emissions by 2050. Now is the time for World Leaders to come out from their castles and take notice of what’s happening just beyond the wall.

In the end it’s not that big a stretch of the imagination. Game of Thrones is a story of climate change, which is a real threat to humanity. So, be warned, winter is coming.... or rather, climate change is already here. Where’s our Night’s Watch when you need them?