Climate Change: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

Study Notes

Climate change refers to the long-term warming of the planet, which is primarily caused by the increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere.
These gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat from the sun and prevent it from being released back into space, leading to a rise in global temperatures.

Greenhouse gases: The main cause of climate change is the increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).
Human activities: The main human activities that contribute to climate change are:
- Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas) for energy.
- Deforestation and land-use changes.
- Agriculture, especially meat production.
- Industrial processes.

Rising global temperatures: The average global temperature has risen by about 1°C since the late 1800s.
Extreme weather events: Climate change is linked to an increase in extreme weather events, such as:
- Heatwaves
- Droughts
- Floods
- Storms
Sea-level rise: Melting of glaciers and ice sheets, and the expansion of seawater as it warms, contributing to sea-level rise.
Loss of biodiversity: Climate change is altering ecosystems, leading to the loss of biodiversity and extinction of species.

Food security: Climate change affects agricultural productivity, leading to food insecurity and economic losses.
Human health: Climate change is linked to an increased risk of heat-related illnesses, respiratory problems, and the spread of disease vectors.
Economic impacts: Climate change is projected to have significant economic impacts, from damaged infrastructure to impacts on tourism and recreation.

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions: Transitioning to renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency, and electrifying transportation.
Carbon capture and storage: Technologies that capture CO2 emissions from power plants and industrial processes, storing them underground.
Sustainable land use: Implementing sustainable agriculture practices, reforestation, and conservation efforts.
Climate-resilient infrastructure: Designing and building infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change.