Climate Change and the Anthropocene Era

The process by which Earth's average temperature increases due to the buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, trapping heat from the sun.

Gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.

An agreement signed in 2015 by 196 countries, aiming to keep global temperature rise well below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels.

The increase in the average temperature of Earth's climate system. It is a major component of climate change.

The UN Climate Change Conference, held annually to discuss and negotiate global responses to climate change.

The point at which Earth's average temperature has risen by 1.5 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels.

The process of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it elsewhere, such as in forests or underground.

A group of scientists that provide comprehensive assessments of the science related to climate change, its impacts, and future risks.

A global fund established to help developing countries cope with the financial losses and damages caused by climate change events.

A global agreement aiming to reduce deforestation by 2030, mainly by protecting forests and promoting sustainable land management.

An international effort to decrease methane emissions by 30% by 2030, focusing on natural gas leaks and agricultural practices.

A series of global climate conferences bringing together countries to negotiate and implement action on climate change.

A United Nations program promoting sustainable development through environmental protection, poverty reduction, and economic growth.

A UN initiative designed to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, focusing on protecting forests and supporting indigenous communities.

The ability to understand and create new ideas or solutions in response to complex challenges, applied to tackling climate change.

The global challenge of climate change caused by rising temperatures, sea levels, and extreme weather events.

A way of life centered around animal husbandry and grazing, often involving seasonal migrations.

The practice of moving livestock seasonally between different grazing areas, often based on climate and resource availability.

The process of creating settlements with a higher population density than rural areas, often accompanied by advancements in crafts and social organization.

A complex society characterized by a significant population, hierarchical structure, specialized roles, and state organization.

The ability to produce more food than needed for immediate consumption, leading to social differentiation, administration, and writing.

The concept that civilizations arise due to the acquisition of land and resources by conquering other groups.

The idea that the development of irrigation systems played a crucial role in the emergence of civilizations.

A society's division of labor based on gender and age, leading to specific responsibilities and roles within the community.

A period of rapid cultural and technological innovation, beginning around 40,000 years ago, marked by advanced tools, art, and complex social structures.

The theory that modern humans originated in Africa and then spread to other parts of the world, replacing earlier hominids.

A group of archaic Homo sapiens that lived in Europe and parts of Asia, known for their distinctive brow ridges and larger brains.

The idea that modern humans evolved in different regions of the world concurrently, with some interbreeding between different populations.

A social construct that categorizes humans based on physical characteristics like skin color, hair texture, and facial features.

The study of the origin and development of humans and their societies.

The process of adapting to a new environment or situation through changes in physical characteristics, behavior, or culture.

The deliberate selection of certain traits based on cultural preferences, often impacting physical appearance.

The practice of dividing tasks and roles within a society based on a person's sex. It often reflects traditional beliefs about the strength, skills, and responsibilities associated with each gender. For example, in some cultures, men might be expected to perform physically demanding tasks while women are responsible for domestic duties.

The way people of different ages contribute to work and society. This varies across different cultures and time periods, with children, adults, and the elderly playing distinct roles.

The process of producing goods and services through cooperation among individuals or groups. This can occur within families, communities, or larger organizations. It involves sharing knowledge, resources, and effort to achieve a common goal.

The development of specialized skills and knowledge that allows individuals or groups to perform specific tasks efficiently. This is often driven by the need for greater productivity and the exchange of goods and services.

The tools, materials, and knowledge needed to create goods and services. The type and complexity of technologies used varies according to the society and its stage of development. For example, hunter-gatherer societies use basic tools, while industrial societies utilize advanced machinery.

Systems that societies use to ensure a fair and balanced distribution of resources and wealth. This can include practices like reciprocal exchange, redistribution, and trade, which aim to prevent the accumulation of wealth in the hands of a few.

The exchange of goods and services without the involvement of money or formal markets. This can involve direct bartering or gifting practices, which can strengthen social bonds and ensure mutual support.

The organized exchange of goods and services in a central location, often involving haggling and negotiation. This is a key feature of complex societies and allows for specialized production and distribution.

A system where lineage and inheritance are traced through the male line. Authority over children rests with the father or his brother. Women are part of their father's lineage, but their children belong to their husband's line.

A system where lineage and inheritance are traced through the female line. It does not necessarily imply matriarchy (female dominance), but rather emphasizes the power of women within the family structure.

A system where individuals inherit rights and property through both their mother's and father's lines.

A system where individuals have the choice to affiliate with either their mother's or father's lineage. Usually, they choose only one.

A social structure where men are generally considered more important and hold greater power than women. This often translates into greater inheritance rights and societal influence.

A group of people related through a common ancestor on the male side, typically extending over five generations.

A system where marriage is only allowed outside of one's own social group.

The act of honoring and worshipping ancestors, often through rituals and temples.