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Questions and Answers
What is the projected rise in average global temperature by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase?
What is the projected rise in average global temperature by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase?
What is the current projected rise in sea levels by 2100?
What is the current projected rise in sea levels by 2100?
Which of the following is a consequence of climate change leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, floods, and storms?
Which of the following is a consequence of climate change leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, floods, and storms?
Which of the following is an individual action to reduce climate change impacts?
Which of the following is an individual action to reduce climate change impacts?
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Which of the following is a main human activity contributing to greenhouse gas emissions?
Which of the following is a main human activity contributing to greenhouse gas emissions?
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What is the main greenhouse gas responsible for climate change?
What is the main greenhouse gas responsible for climate change?
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Which environmental activist is known for sparking global awareness and action?
Which environmental activist is known for sparking global awareness and action?
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What is the projected increase in average global temperature by 2050?
What is the projected increase in average global temperature by 2050?
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What is a key consequence of climate change?
What is a key consequence of climate change?
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What is a key individual action to reduce carbon footprint?
What is a key individual action to reduce carbon footprint?
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What is a key benefit of renewable energy?
What is a key benefit of renewable energy?
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What is a key principle of sustainable living?
What is a key principle of sustainable living?
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What is the current level of CO2 in the atmosphere?
What is the current level of CO2 in the atmosphere?
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What percentage of climate scientists agree on human-caused climate change?
What percentage of climate scientists agree on human-caused climate change?
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What is the main cause of rising sea levels?
What is the main cause of rising sea levels?
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What is the projected impact of climate change on global food production by 2050?
What is the projected impact of climate change on global food production by 2050?
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Which of the following species is particularly vulnerable to climate change?
Which of the following species is particularly vulnerable to climate change?
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What is the projected number of people displaced by climate change by 2050?
What is the projected number of people displaced by climate change by 2050?
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What is the consequence of climate change on ecosystems?
What is the consequence of climate change on ecosystems?
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What is the projected increase in frequency and severity of weather events due to climate change?
What is the projected increase in frequency and severity of weather events due to climate change?
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What is the consequence of sea level rise on coastal areas?
What is the consequence of sea level rise on coastal areas?
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What is the percentage of species at risk of extinction due to climate change?
What is the percentage of species at risk of extinction due to climate change?
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What is the consequence of climate change on human well-being?
What is the consequence of climate change on human well-being?
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What is the consequence of climate change on social structures?
What is the consequence of climate change on social structures?
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What is the main contributor to the current rate of sea level rise?
What is the main contributor to the current rate of sea level rise?
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What is a major impact of climate change on agriculture?
What is a major impact of climate change on agriculture?
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What is a major driver of human migration due to climate change?
What is a major driver of human migration due to climate change?
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What is a major consequence of climate change on ecosystems?
What is a major consequence of climate change on ecosystems?
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What is a predicted consequence of climate change on global biodiversity?
What is a predicted consequence of climate change on global biodiversity?
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What is a major impact of climate change on human well-being?
What is a major impact of climate change on human well-being?
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What is a major factor contributing to the increased frequency of extreme weather events?
What is a major factor contributing to the increased frequency of extreme weather events?
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What is a major consequence of sea level rise on coastal areas?
What is a major consequence of sea level rise on coastal areas?
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What percentage of their mass have glaciers lost since 1850?
What percentage of their mass have glaciers lost since 1850?
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What is a major consequence of sea level rise?
What is a major consequence of sea level rise?
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What type of events are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change?
What type of events are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change?
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Which population is disproportionately affected by food insecurity?
Which population is disproportionately affected by food insecurity?
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What is a key driver of biodiversity loss?
What is a key driver of biodiversity loss?
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What is a major impact of glacier melting on ecosystems?
What is a major impact of glacier melting on ecosystems?
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What is a consequence of biodiversity loss?
What is a consequence of biodiversity loss?
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What is a major impact of climate change on agricultural productivity?
What is a major impact of climate change on agricultural productivity?
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Study Notes
Climate Change Impacts
- Rising Global Temperatures: Average global temperature has risen by about 1°C since the late 1800s, and is projected to continue to rise by another 2-5°C by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase.
- More Extreme Weather Events: Climate change is leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, floods, and storms.
- Sea-Level Rise: Oceans have risen by about 20 cm since 1880, and are projected to rise by another 26-82 cm by 2100, threatening coastal ecosystems and human settlements.
- Water Scarcity: Changes in precipitation patterns and increased evaporation due to warmer temperatures are leading to water scarcity in many regions.
- Loss of Biodiversity: Climate change is altering ecosystems, leading to the loss of biodiversity and extinction of many species.
Environmental Activism
- Individual Actions: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle; use public transport, carpool, or drive electric vehicles; use energy-efficient appliances and turn off lights when not in use.
- Community Involvement: Participate in local climate initiatives, advocate for climate policies, and support organizations working on climate issues.
- Global Movements: Join global movements like Fridays for Future, Extinction Rebellion, and Climate Strikes to raise awareness and demand action from governments and corporations.
- Policy Change: Advocate for climate policies, such as carbon pricing, renewable energy targets, and green infrastructure investments.
Climate Change Facts
- Greenhouse Gases: Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) are the main greenhouse gases responsible for climate change.
- Human Activities: Burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and agriculture are the main human activities contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Natural Carbon Sinks: Forests, oceans, and soil absorb about 50% of human-caused CO2 emissions, but are being overwhelmed by the increasing amount of emissions.
- Tipping Points: Climate change is reaching tipping points, such as melting Arctic sea ice and thawing permafrost, which can have irreversible and catastrophic consequences.
- Scientific Consensus: Over 97% of climate scientists agree that human activities are causing climate change.
Climate Change Impacts
- The average global temperature has risen by about 1°C since the late 1800s and is projected to continue to rise by another 2-5°C by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase.
- Climate change is leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, floods, and storms due to the rising global temperature.
- Sea levels have risen by about 20 cm since 1880 and are projected to rise by another 26-82 cm by 2100, threatening coastal ecosystems and human settlements.
- Changes in precipitation patterns and increased evaporation due to warmer temperatures are leading to water scarcity in many regions.
- Climate change is altering ecosystems, leading to the loss of biodiversity and extinction of many species.
Environmental Activism
- Individual actions can make a difference, such as reducing, reusing, and recycling, using public transport, carpooling, or driving electric vehicles, and using energy-efficient appliances.
- Community involvement is crucial, including participating in local climate initiatives, advocating for climate policies, and supporting organizations working on climate issues.
- Global movements like Fridays for Future, Extinction Rebellion, and Climate Strikes are raising awareness and demanding action from governments and corporations.
- Advocating for climate policies, such as carbon pricing, renewable energy targets, and green infrastructure investments, is essential for mitigating climate change.
Climate Change Facts
- Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) are the main greenhouse gases responsible for climate change.
- Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and agriculture, are the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Natural carbon sinks, including forests, oceans, and soil, absorb about 50% of human-caused CO2 emissions, but are being overwhelmed by the increasing amount of emissions.
- Climate change is reaching tipping points, such as melting Arctic sea ice and thawing permafrost, which can have irreversible and catastrophic consequences.
- There is a scientific consensus, with over 97% of climate scientists agreeing that human activities are causing climate change.
Environmental Activism
- Environmental activism involves actions taken by individuals, organizations, and governments to protect the environment and mitigate climate change effects.
- Greta Thunberg is a prominent climate activist who has raised global awareness and sparked action.
- Extinction Rebellion is a global movement using non-violent civil disobedience to demand climate action.
- Greenpeace is an international organization using direct action to expose environmental problems.
Climate Change Impacts
- The average global temperature has increased by 1°C since 1880.
- The global temperature is projected to increase by 1.5-2°C by 2050.
- Rising temperatures cause melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, sea-level rise, and coastal flooding.
- Climate change also leads to increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events and changes in precipitation patterns.
- It results in water scarcity, loss of biodiversity, and disruption of food chains and ecosystems.
Reducing Carbon Footprint
- To reduce energy consumption, individuals can switch to energy-efficient appliances and turn off lights and electronics.
- Using public transport, walking, or biking reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
- Eating a plant-based diet reduces greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.
- Reducing, reusing, and recycling minimizes waste and pollution.
- Governments and businesses can implement carbon pricing, invest in renewable energy, and develop sustainable infrastructure.
Sustainable Living
- Sustainable living principles involve reducing consumption and waste, using renewable resources, and minimizing harm to the environment and human health.
- Buying local and seasonal products, using eco-friendly products, and reducing water consumption promote sustainable living.
- Supporting sustainable agriculture and forestry practices contribute to sustainable living.
- Sustainable cities can be achieved by designing green spaces, implementing sustainable transportation, and promoting energy-efficient buildings.
Renewable Energy
- Solar energy harnesses energy from the sun.
- Wind energy harnesses energy from wind.
- Hydro energy harnesses energy from moving water.
- Geothermal energy harnesses energy from the Earth's heat.
- Renewable energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions, promotes energy independence, and creates jobs.
- Challenges to renewable energy include intermittency, high upfront costs, and infrastructure integration.
Climate Change Facts
- CO2 levels have risen from 280 ppm pre-industrial to 415 ppm currently and are projected to reach 550 ppm by 2050.
- 2020 was the hottest year on record, and the 2010s were the hottest decade on record.
- 20 of the hottest 21 years have occurred since 2001.
- 97% of climate scientists agree on human-caused climate change, and 195 countries signed the Paris Agreement in 2015.
Climate Change
Rising Sea Levels
- Global sea levels have risen by about 8 inches over the past century, with a projected increase of another 1-4 feet by 2100
- Melting of glaciers and ice sheets, along with thermal expansion of seawater, are the main causes of this rise
- Coastal erosion, flooding, and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources are the major consequences of rising sea levels
Extreme Weather Events
- Heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall events are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change
- The number of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes is projected to increase, making weather events more unpredictable and intense
- Climate change is responsible for the increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events, leading to loss of life, property damage, and displacement of people
Biodiversity Loss
- Climate change is altering ecosystems and disrupting species habitats, putting 1 in 6 species at risk of extinction
- Polar bears, coral reefs, and amphibians are particularly vulnerable to the changing climate
- The loss of ecosystem services, decreased food security, and decreased human well-being are the major consequences of biodiversity loss
Food Security Threats
- Climate change is projected to decrease global food production by 2-6% by 2050, leading to increased food prices and decreased food availability
- Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns are altering growing seasons and crop yields, putting global food security at risk
- The consequences of decreased food security include increased risk of hunger and malnutrition
Human Migration
- Climate change is projected to displace 143 million people by 2050, with sea level rise, natural disasters, and decreased food security driving migration
- The social, economic, and cultural impacts on communities, along with increased risk of conflict, are the major consequences of climate-induced migration
Climate Change Facts
- Climate change is a real and pressing issue, primarily caused by human activities
- 2019 was the hottest year on record globally, with the past decade (2010-2019) being the warmest on record
- The concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere has surpassed 415 parts per million (ppm), highlighting the need for urgent action to mitigate climate change
Climate Change Facts
- Climate change is the long-term warming of the planet due to a 1°C rise in average global temperature since the late 1800s.
- The main cause is the increasing levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), due to human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and land-use changes.
- 2020 was the hottest year on record, with the past decade being the warmest decade on record.
Sea Level Rise
- Global sea levels have risen by about 15-20 cm since 1900.
- The current rate of sea level rise is 3.2 mm per year.
- Causes of sea level rise include thermal expansion of seawater, melting of glaciers and ice sheets, and changes in land water storage.
- Predictions indicate a 26 cm to 82 cm rise in sea levels by 2100, depending on the level of GHG emissions.
Food Security
- Climate change affects agricultural productivity, leading to changes in growing seasons and crop yields, shifts in suitable areas for crops, and increased frequency of extreme weather events damaging crops.
- Impacts on pollinators and pest management are also expected.
- Food security risks include decreased crop yields, changed food availability, and increased food prices.
Human Migration
- Climate change is expected to displace millions of people, mainly in low-lying coastal areas, islands, and areas with limited resources.
- Reasons for migration include sea level rise, increased flooding, drought, and decreased livelihood opportunities.
- Impacts of migration include social, economic, and cultural disruption, as well as increased pressure on urban areas and resources.
Extinction Risks
- Climate change is a major driver of biodiversity loss, with changes in species distribution and extinction risk, disruption of ecosystems and food chains, and increased risk of invasive species and disease spread.
- Predictions indicate that up to 30% of plant and animal species may be at risk of extinction by 2050.
Health Impacts
- Climate change increases the spread of diseases, heat stress, and other health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
- People living in areas with poor air quality, inadequate healthcare, and limited access to resources are also at risk.
- Health risks include increased mortality, morbidity, and mental health impacts.
Melting Glaciers
- Glaciers have lost 15% of their mass since 1850, making them sensitive indicators of climate change
- Melting glaciers contribute to sea level rise, altering ecosystems, and affecting freshwater resources
Sea Level Rise
- Global sea levels have risen by 8 inches over the past century, with a projected 1-4 feet rise by 2100
- Rising sea levels cause coastal erosion, flooding, and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources, displacing human populations and damaging infrastructure
Extreme Weather Events
- Climate change increases the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, floods, and intense storms
- These events have devastating impacts on human populations, infrastructure, and ecosystems
Food Insecurity
- Climate change affects agricultural productivity, reducing crop yields and food availability due to rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events
- Food insecurity disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the poor, children, and the elderly
Biodiversity Loss
- Climate change is a key driver of biodiversity loss, threatening species such as polar bears, coral reefs, and amphibians
- Biodiversity loss has cascading effects on ecosystems, leading to the degradation of ecosystem services and human well-being
Climate Change Facts
- The current rate of carbon dioxide increase is unprecedented in the past 800,000 years
- 2020 was the hottest year on record, with the past decade being the warmest on record
- Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, drive climate change
- The window for taking action to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels is rapidly closing
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Description
Learn about the rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise caused by climate change. Understand the projected increases in temperature and sea-level by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise.
