Climate Change Quiz: Melting Glaciers & Water Security

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What is climate change?

A change in the typical weather for a region over a short period of time

A temporary change in the weather for a region

A change in the temperature of the Earth's core

A change in the typical weather for a region over a long period of time (correct)

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather is the temperature of the Earth's core

Weather and climate are the same thing

Weather is temporary, while climate is the typical weather conditions in an entire region for a long period of time (correct)

Weather is the typical weather conditions in an entire region for a long period of time, while climate is temporary

What is global warming?

The decrease in greenhouse gases

The rise in global temperature (correct)

The cooling of the Earth's atmosphere

The increase in rainfall

What do scientists use to collect information about Earth's climate?

NASA satellites and other instruments Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of greenhouse gases in keeping Earth warm?

They trap heat from the Sun Signup and view all the answers

What is the timeframe for climate?

Typical weather conditions in an entire region for a very long time – 30 years or more Signup and view all the answers

What do scientists observe about Earth's temperature?

Overall, Earth is warming Signup and view all the answers

How long have NASA scientists been studying Earth's climate?

More than 40 years Signup and view all the answers

What is the timeframe for weather?

Temporary Signup and view all the answers

What happens when some of the gases in Earth’s atmosphere trap heat from the Sun?

They keep Earth warm enough to live on Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of the Earth's warming?

Human activities such as burning fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the carbon that was in the ground when we burn fossil fuels?

It goes into the air as carbon dioxide Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of climate change on sea levels?

Sea levels are rising due to melting ice and warmer water Signup and view all the answers

What is the process called when the ocean becomes more acidic?

Ocean acidification Signup and view all the answers

How have the average air temperatures near Earth's surface changed in the last century?

They have gone up by 2 degrees Fahrenheit Signup and view all the answers

What are fossil fuels?

Remains of plants and animals that have been buried for millions of years Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of climate change on the health of Earth's plants and animals?

It has a big impact on the health of Earth's plants and animals Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the water in the oceans as it gets warmer?

It expands and takes up more room Signup and view all the answers

What is the source of carbon in fossil fuels?

Carbon in the ground Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of ocean acidification on plants and animals?

It can be harmful for plants and animals Signup and view all the answers

Climate describes the typical weather conditions in an entire region for a very long time – 30 years or more.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change describes a change in the typical weather for a region over a short period of time.

False Signup and view all the answers

Scientists have been studying Earth's climate for more than 40 years.

True Signup and view all the answers

Global warming is the term used to describe the rise in Earth's average surface temperature.

True Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases keep Earth warm enough to live on.

True Signup and view all the answers

Blizzards can turn into floods after just a few warm spring days.

True Signup and view all the answers

The warming of Earth's climate is a natural process that has always occurred.

False Signup and view all the answers

Many of the warmest years on record have happened in the past 20 years.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change only affects certain regions of the world.

False Signup and view all the answers

NASA scientists use satellites and instruments to collect information about Earth's climate.

True Signup and view all the answers

Human activities such as burning fossil fuels create extra greenhouse gases that trap the Sun's heat, leading to a warmer Earth.

True Signup and view all the answers

Carbon is not present in all living things on Earth.

False Signup and view all the answers

Fossil fuels such as oil and coal are formed from underground remains of plants and animals.

True Signup and view all the answers

When we burn fossil fuels, the carbon in them goes into the air as a gas called oxygen.

False Signup and view all the answers

Plants and trees can absorb all of the extra carbon dioxide in the atmosphere caused by burning fossil fuels.

False Signup and view all the answers

Earth's climate has never warmed up or cooled down in the past.

False Signup and view all the answers

Over the last century, the average air temperatures near Earth's surface have gone up by about 2 degrees Fahrenheit.

True Signup and view all the answers

As the planet warms, sea levels are also rising due to melting ice and water expansion.

True Signup and view all the answers

Ocean acidification is not harmful to plants and animals.

False Signup and view all the answers

The warming of the planet is happening much faster than it has over human history.

True Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes nature-based solutions?

Actions to protect, sustainably manage, or restore natural ecosystems that address societal challenges Signup and view all the answers

What is a common problem that nature-based solutions can address?

Coastal flooding Signup and view all the answers

Which type of infrastructure is traditionally used to tackle coastal flooding?

Manmade (grey) infrastructure such as sea walls or dikes Signup and view all the answers

What is the estimated contribution of nature-based solutions to mitigating climate change until 2030?

37% Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a nature-based solution that can act as a carbon sink?

Restoring native forest at the margins of the river to avoid landslides Signup and view all the answers

What is climate-smart agriculture?

An example of nature-based solutions that enables farmers to retain more carbon in their fields as they produce crops Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of planting mangroves to address coastal flooding?

Reduces the impact of storms on human lives and economic assets, and provides a habitat for fish, birds and other plants supporting biodiversity Signup and view all the answers

What benefits do wetlands provide?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of the project in Zhejiang Qiandao Lake and Xin’an River Basin, China?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the basic metric used to measure the results of a restoration or reforestation project?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) Signup and view all the answers

Why is measuring the impact on biodiversity more complicated than measuring the impact on climate?

Biodiversity is irreplaceable and its loss may be irreversible Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of an evidence-based approach to managing nature-based solutions?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the interventions being implemented in the Zhejiang Qiandao Lake and Xin’an River Basin project?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the critical aspect of measuring the benefits of nature-based solutions?

Looking beyond climate and measuring the other benefits Signup and view all the answers

According to the World Bank, why is biodiversity and ecosystem services loss a development issue?

Because it affects the financial markets Signup and view all the answers

What is the World Bank doing to improve the assessment of biodiversity benefits in development portfolios?

Working with other banks to develop new financial instruments Signup and view all the answers

Why are the stakes high in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss?

Because they are moral imperatives Signup and view all the answers

What is a common element in all pathways to achieving the Paris Agreement?

Protection of forests Signup and view all the answers

What do nature-based solutions offer in addressing the climate and biodiversity crises?

A way to achieve sustainable development Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of forests in achieving the Paris Agreement?

To reduce greenhouse gas emissions Signup and view all the answers

What are the risks of global biodiversity and ecosystem loss?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of addressing the climate and biodiversity crises in a synergetic and cost-effective manner?

It reduces the cost of addressing each crisis separately Signup and view all the answers

What do all pathways to achieving the Paris Agreement include?

Protection of forests Signup and view all the answers

What is one way to benefit from nature-based solutions mentioned in the text?

Paying farmers to not cut down forests Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of nature-based solutions in climate change adaptation and building resilience?

They play a major role Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of mitigation needed until 2030 can nature-based solutions provide according to estimates?

37% Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of many World Bank projects incorporating nature-based solutions?

Water and disaster risk management Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a nature-based solution project in Burundi mentioned in the text?

Constructing nearly 8,000 hectares of terraces on hillsides Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of the nature-based solution project in Colombo, Sri Lanka mentioned in the text?

Restoring and protecting urban wetlands Signup and view all the answers

What is the World Bank committed to addressing according to the text?

The climate crisis and the biodiversity crisis Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions only address climate change

False Signup and view all the answers

Mangroves can reduce the impact of coastal erosion and support biodiversity

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate-smart agriculture can help retain carbon in fields

True Signup and view all the answers

Restoring native forests cannot act as a carbon sink

False Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions can provide 37% of the mitigation needed to achieve the Paris Agreement targets

True Signup and view all the answers

Planting trees can help fight climate change by soaking up carbon

True Signup and view all the answers

Grey infrastructure is the only solution to tackle coastal flooding

False Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions can only address one problem at a time.

False Signup and view all the answers

Planting non-native trees can still generate biodiversity benefits.

False Signup and view all the answers

The World Bank is committed to addressing the climate crisis but not the biodiversity crisis.

False Signup and view all the answers

In Burundi, erosion control measures have been implemented to reduce the impact of landslides and floods.

True Signup and view all the answers

The wetlands in Colombo, Sri Lanka, have increased in holding capacity over the past decade.

False Signup and view all the answers

The project in Colombo used both green and grey infrastructure to restore and protect the wetlands.

True Signup and view all the answers

In FY20, the World Bank had 70 projects incorporating nature-based solutions.

True Signup and view all the answers

Is biodiversity and ecosystem services loss only an environmental issue?

False Signup and view all the answers

The World Bank has invested in nature for more than three decades.

True Signup and view all the answers

The World Bank is currently working alone to improve biodiversity benefits assessment.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate change poses no significant risks to global development.

False Signup and view all the answers

Protection of forests is not a pathway to achieving the Paris Agreement.

False Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions cannot address both the climate and biodiversity crises.

False Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions are cost-effective ways of addressing climate and biodiversity crises.

True Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions are not a way of addressing the climate and biodiversity crises in a synergetic manner.

False Signup and view all the answers

All multilateral development banks are working together to improve biodiversity benefits assessment.

True Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions can help address both the climate and biodiversity crises.

True Signup and view all the answers

Restoring wetlands can help improve water quality and reduce the need for air conditioning.

True Signup and view all the answers

The Beddagana wetland has been turned into a park and wildlife sanctuary.

True Signup and view all the answers

Integrated pollution and watershed management is being implemented in the Zhejiang Qiandao Lake and Xin'an River Basin to improve water quality.

True Signup and view all the answers

Carbon dioxide is the basic metric used to measure results from nature-based solutions aimed at mitigating climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

Measuring the impact on biodiversity is straightforward and can be done with a single high-level metric.

False Signup and view all the answers

Measuring the impact of nature-based solutions on biodiversity can be complicated and multi-dimensional.

True Signup and view all the answers

______ and ecosystem services loss is a development issue

Biodiversity Signup and view all the answers

The World Bank has invested in nature for more than ______ decades

three Signup and view all the answers

The World Bank is working with other multilateral development banks to improve the way biodiversity benefits are assessed in development portfolios and in the broader ______ markets

financial Signup and view all the answers

The risks that climate change poses to global development are significant, and so are the risks of global biodiversity and ecosystem ______

loss Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions offer a way of addressing the climate and biodiversity crises in a synergetic and cost-________ manner

effective Signup and view all the answers

All pathways to achieving the Paris Agreement include protection of forests and conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of natural ________

ecosystems Signup and view all the answers

The ______ are high

stakes Signup and view all the answers

The project in Colombo used both green and grey infrastructure to restore and protect the ________

wetlands Signup and view all the answers

The risks of climate change and biodiversity loss are significant, but they can be addressed through ___________ solutions

nature-based Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions can provide up to ______ of the mitigation needed until 2030 to achieve the targets of the Paris Agreement.

37% Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions can help manage ______ risk and reduce the incidence and impact of flooding, mudslides, and other disasters.

disaster Signup and view all the answers

In Burundi, forests have been cleared and crops have been grown on steep hillsides without controlling erosion. As a result, the country has experienced more frequent landslides and floods and these have been made worse by the torrential rains and droughts associated with ______ change.

climate Signup and view all the answers

The World Bank is committed to addressing the two intersecting global crises: the climate crisis and the ______ crisis.

biodiversity Signup and view all the answers

In Colombo, Sri Lanka, we’re supporting a project pioneering the use of urban wetlands as a nature-based solution. Wetlands reduce flood risk by holding excess water, but the holding capacity of Colombo’s wetlands dropped by ______ over a decade.

40% Signup and view all the answers

Decreasing deforestation is another way to benefit from nature-based solutions – for example, by paying farmers not to cut down the forest preserves ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, provision of clean drinking water, and reduction of river sedimentation ______.

downstream Signup and view all the answers

_________ can provide country-level support for nature-based solutions by scaling up staff training.

World Bank Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions offer a way of addressing the climate and biodiversity crises in a ______ and cost-effective manner.

synergetic Signup and view all the answers

Projects have a range of indicators available to them, such as trends in (threatened) species populations and the provision of critical ______ services.

ecosystem Signup and view all the answers

The equations, the protocols, and the systems are well established to measure the results with carbon dioxide (CO2) being the basic metric used to mitigate ______ change.

climate Signup and view all the answers

A ton of CO2 equivalent sequestered in a restoration project Brazil has the same effect on greenhouse gas concentration in the atmosphere as a ton of CO2 sequestered in a ______ project in Russia.

reforestation Signup and view all the answers

If the goal is to mitigate climate change, the equations, the protocols, and the systems are well established to measure the results - with carbon dioxide (CO2) being the basic metric used. What is critical is to look beyond climate and to also measure (and monetize – for example through environmental markets) the other benefits that the nature-based solution is ______.

delivering Signup and view all the answers

An evidence-based approach to managing, and measuring results from, nature-based solutions is ______.

paramount Signup and view all the answers

Ecosystems are highly complex and dynamic systems; and there is no single high-level metric or a global goal on ______ equivalent to keeping the global warming below 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels in the climate realm.

biodiversity Signup and view all the answers

What are nature-based solutions? Nature-based solutions are actions to protect, sustainably manage, or restore natural ecosystems that address societal challenges such as climate change, human health, food and water security, and disaster risk reduction effectively and adaptively, simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits.

Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a nature-based solution to address coastal flooding? Planting trees that thrive in coastal areas – known as mangroves -- reduces the impact of storms on human lives and economic assets, and provides a habitat for fish, birds and other plants supporting biodiversity.

Signup and view all the answers

What is the percentage of mitigation that nature-based solutions can provide until 2030 to achieve the targets of the Paris Agreement? 37%

Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of restoring native forest to avoid landslides? This can also act as a carbon sink.

Signup and view all the answers

What is climate-smart agriculture? This is an example that enables farmers to retain more carbon in their fields as they produce crops.

Signup and view all the answers

What is the traditional approach to tackle challenges such as flooding in coastal areas? Manmade (grey) infrastructure such as sea walls or dikes.

Signup and view all the answers

What are the societal challenges that nature-based solutions can address? Climate change, human health, food and water security, and disaster risk reduction.

Signup and view all the answers

What gas traps heat that would otherwise escape Earth's atmosphere?

Carbon dioxide Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason behind the Earth's increase in temperature, according to the text?

Human activity Signup and view all the answers

By how much has the Earth's temperature increased in the past hundred years, according to the text?

1.5°F Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected increase in the Earth's temperature by the year 2100, according to the text?

8.6°F Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of climate change on ocean currents, according to the text?

It changes the patterns of ocean currents Signup and view all the answers

Which animal species is mentioned in the text that cannot survive in water that's too warm?

American pika Signup and view all the answers

What could be the impact of a continuing rise in sea level due to melting polar ice, according to the text?

It might push people out of their homes Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of climate change on disease-carrying mosquitoes, according to the text?

It increases the number of mosquitoes Signup and view all the answers

What can individuals do to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide they add to the atmosphere, according to the text?

Try some tips to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide you add to the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of climate change on plant and animal species, according to the text?

Hundreds of plant and animal species have already experienced changes because of climate change. Signup and view all the answers

What is climate?

The pattern of weather conditions over a long period of time for a large area Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of changes in polar sea ice?

Burning of fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the main gas released by burning fossil fuels?

Carbon dioxide Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of Earth's atmosphere in keeping the planet warm?

It traps some of the sun's heat Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather is the pattern of conditions over a short period of time for a small area, while climate is the pattern of conditions over a long period of time for a large area Signup and view all the answers

What is the main effect of climate change on polar bears?

They have to scavenge for less nutritious food Signup and view all the answers

What is the main source of energy for homes, cars, and factories?

Fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the main consequence of releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere?

It causes the atmosphere to trap more heat Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason why Earth's climate is changing more rapidly now than in the past?

Burning of fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason why Earth's atmosphere is important for life on the planet?

It creates a greenhouse effect that keeps the planet warm enough to live on Signup and view all the answers

What has been the impact of climate change on the timing of polar sea ice melting and re-forming?

It has caused sea ice to melt earlier and re-form later than in the past Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Polar bears usually hunt for food on the sea ice?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Climate is the pattern of weather conditions over a short period of time?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Earth's atmosphere traps some of the sun's heat, keeping the planet warm enough to live on?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Earth's climate has always naturally cycled through change?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Climate change only affects polar bears?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Oil, gas, and coal have been powering homes, cars, and factories for only a few decades?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The World Bank had 70 projects incorporating nature-based solutions in FY20?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Protecting forests is not a pathway to achieving the Paris Agreement?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Carbon is present in all living things on Earth?

True Signup and view all the answers

Human activity is contributing to the warming of the planet

True Signup and view all the answers

The Earth's temperature has only increased by 0.5°F in the past century

False Signup and view all the answers

Melting glaciers, drought, and coral reef die-off are some of the effects of the temperature increase

True Signup and view all the answers

The American pika is a mammal that can survive in warm temperatures

False Signup and view all the answers

Warmer water affects global weather patterns by changing the patterns of ocean currents

True Signup and view all the answers

Tropical storms are expected to become weaker as the Earth warms

False Signup and view all the answers

Disease-carrying mosquitoes thrive in warm, wet weather

True Signup and view all the answers

Everyone can reduce the amount of carbon dioxide they add to the atmosphere

True Signup and view all the answers

Protecting forests is not a way to mitigate climate change

False Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions are cost-effective ways to address climate and biodiversity crises

True Signup and view all the answers

What gas is released into the atmosphere by burning oil, gas, and coal?

carbon dioxide (CO2) Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical weather conditions over a long period of time for a large area?

climate Signup and view all the answers

What is the Earth's atmosphere made up of?

gases Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of climate change on polar bears?

scavenging for other, less nutritious food Signup and view all the answers

How many ice ages and warming periods has the Earth gone through over the past 650,000 years?

seven Signup and view all the answers

What traps some of the sun's heat in Earth's atmosphere?

gas Signup and view all the answers

What is affected by Earth's atmosphere?

climate Signup and view all the answers

What keeps Earth warm enough to live on?

atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What are polar bears hunting for on the sea ice?

seals Signup and view all the answers

What affects everyone, not just polar bears?

climate change Signup and view all the answers

So many scientists agree that the Earth is now warming because of ______ activity

human Signup and view all the answers

The Earth's average temperature has increased about 1.5°F in the past ______ years

hundred Signup and view all the answers

Climate change affects more than ______

temperature Signup and view all the answers

Warmer water changes the patterns of ocean currents, affecting global ______ patterns

weather Signup and view all the answers

Try some of these tips to reduce the amount of ______ dioxide you add to the atmosphere

carbon Signup and view all the answers

Tropical storms could be ______ due to climate change

stronger Signup and view all the answers

The American pika can die when exposed to temperatures warmer than ______˚F

78 Signup and view all the answers

More people could contract illnesses such as malaria as the Earth ______

warms Signup and view all the answers

It’s simple to make a difference to keep the Earth ______

healthy Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions are actions to protect, sustainably manage, or restore natural ecosystems that address societal challenges such as climate change, human health, food and water security, and disaster risk reduction effectively and adaptively, simultaneously providing human well-being and ______ benefits

biodiversity Signup and view all the answers

What is adaptation in the context of climate change?

A process of hardening ourselves to the impacts of climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is one example of adaptation mentioned in the text?

Adding green spaces to cool down urban areas Signup and view all the answers

What is one way in which the inequities of climate change are apparent?

Access to mitigation and adaptation resources Signup and view all the answers

What is one way in which individuals can prepare for the impacts of climate change?

Thinking about their risk to climate impacts and preparing themselves, their property, and their community accordingly Signup and view all the answers

What is needed for society to meet the challenges of climate change?

Ambitious and community-minded action by government at all levels and across the private sector, sustained for a long time Signup and view all the answers

Which period in geological terms has humanity occupied a fairly stable climate for about the last ten thousand years?

Holocene period Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of the fundamental disruption of the stability of our climate?

Burning of fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What are greenhouse gases?

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the Hillhouse Professor of Environmental Law and Policy at the Yale School of the Environment and Yale Law School's explanation for the emission of greenhouse gases?

Burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of greenhouse gases on the planet?

They trap heat in the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the common greenhouse gases?

Carbon dioxide, methane, and chlorofluorocarbons Signup and view all the answers

What are carbon sinks?

Places that naturally store carbon and keep it out of the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of the climate crisis?

The burning of fossil fuels and elimination of carbon sinks Signup and view all the answers

What is the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere now compared to pre-industrial times?

Around 400 ppm Signup and view all the answers

What is the cultural and social context for the climate crisis?

Critical to the issue of climate change Signup and view all the answers

Which communities are often least equipped to protect themselves from the devastating effects of climate change?

Communities that have contributed the least to the crisis Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of mitigation in the context of climate change?

The attempt to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions going into the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is a key area of focus in the shift towards a clean energy grid?

Using renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power Signup and view all the answers

What is geoengineering in the context of climate change?

The deliberate large-scale manipulation of an environmental process that affects the Earth's climate in an attempt to counteract the effects of global warming Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of the fossil fuel economy on sacrifice zones?

It requires sacrifice zones, and sacrifice zones require racism and other hierarchies Signup and view all the answers

What was Yale's greenhouse gas emissions goal and when was it achieved?

Reducing emissions by 43% below 2005 levels by 2020 Signup and view all the answers

What is Yale's new emissions reductions target and when is it expected to be achieved?

Achieving zero actual carbon emissions by 2050 Signup and view all the answers

What is required for a broad cultural shift toward civic engagement and action according to the text?

The mobilization of both activists and the broader public Signup and view all the answers

What are some notable contributions to Yale's greenhouse gas emissions goal according to the text?

Individuals, academic and operational departments Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between achieving zero actual carbon emissions and reaching net zero emissions according to the text?

Achieving zero actual carbon emissions means reducing carbon emissions to zero without having to purchase carbon offsets, while reaching net zero emissions means zero emissions after offsets and other campus reductions in emissions are factored in Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a consequence of climate change, as described in the text?

Measurable sea level rise Signup and view all the answers

What impact will melting glaciers have, according to the text?

Increased risk of severe flooding in coastal communities Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of changes in rainfall patterns caused by climate change, according to the text?

Decrease in amount of crops that can successfully grow Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of increased temperatures and ocean acidification on species and ecosystems, according to the text?

Collapse of certain species Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of the historically stable climate on our civilizational infrastructure, according to Massie?

Our infrastructure is geographically anchored and cannot be easily moved Signup and view all the answers

Humanity has occupied a fairly stable climate for the last ten thousand years

True Signup and view all the answers

The burning of fossil fuels is the primary cause of climate disruption

True Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases act like a heat-trapping blanket over the planet

True Signup and view all the answers

The stability of the Holocene climate is a basic precondition for agriculture and civilization

True Signup and view all the answers

Weather systems and coastlines have remained in place for the last ten thousand years

True Signup and view all the answers

Adaptation is the only solution to climate change.

False Signup and view all the answers

Mitigation efforts will include incentives to switch to sustainable transportation.

True Signup and view all the answers

Adaptation efforts require a large upfront investment that not all communities have.

True Signup and view all the answers

To address climate change, only government intervention is necessary.

False Signup and view all the answers

Individuals can prepare themselves for climate impacts by assessing their risk and taking action.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate impacts reduce existing inequalities and do not create new ones.

False Signup and view all the answers

Island nations are often least equipped to protect themselves from the devastating effects of climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

Moving towards a clean energy grid involves relying solely on fossil fuels.

False Signup and view all the answers

Geoengineering involves the deliberate large-scale manipulation of an environmental process to counteract the effects of global warming.

True Signup and view all the answers

Mitigation includes efforts to increase and protect carbon sinks.

True Signup and view all the answers

Carbon dioxide is one of the greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

Plants and trees are natural carbon sinks that can absorb carbon dioxide.

True Signup and view all the answers

Widespread deforestation and changes in land use patterns contribute significantly to the climate crisis.

True Signup and view all the answers

The cultural and social context for the climate crisis is not important in understanding its causes.

False Signup and view all the answers

Scientists can measure the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere by examining polar ice cores or sediment from the ocean floor.

True Signup and view all the answers

Did Yale meet its greenhouse gas emissions goal in 2020?

True Signup and view all the answers

Yale announced a new emissions reductions target that includes achieving zero actual carbon emissions by 2035.

False Signup and view all the answers

The achievement of reducing emissions by 43% below 2005 levels was possible due to the contributions of countless individuals and departments on campus.

True Signup and view all the answers

To achieve zero actual carbon emissions, Yale will need to purchase carbon offsets.

False Signup and view all the answers

The mobilization of both activists and the broader public is needed for a cultural shift toward civic engagement and action in the climate justice struggle.

True Signup and view all the answers

Massie gives the example of oceans becoming more acidic as they absorb higher levels of carbon dioxide.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change will not lead to more severe weather events and natural disasters.

False Signup and view all the answers

Increasing temperatures will not melt glaciers at the Earth's poles.

False Signup and view all the answers

Changes in rainfall patterns and new periods of drought may not alter the lands that are suitable for food production.

False Signup and view all the answers

The climate crisis will not challenge the equitable access to the necessities of life and put great stress on the social fabric of humanity.

False Signup and view all the answers

The stability of our climate over the last ten thousand years is a basic precondition for the flourishing of agriculture and civilization. What we are seeing now is the fundamental disruption of that ______.

stability Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases emitted from burning fossil fuels act like a heat-trapping blanket over the planet and prevent the heat that comes from ______ from leaving the atmosphere.

sunlight Signup and view all the answers

[Blank] Professor of Environmental Law and Policy at the Yale School of the Environment and Yale Law School explains that burning fossil fuels emit greenhouse gases.

Dan Esty Signup and view all the answers

The burning of fossil fuels like oil, coal, and natural gas at a mass scale during the Industrial Revolution is primarily responsible for the fundamental changes to the stability of our ______.

climate Signup and view all the answers

[Blank] are gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to the greenhouse effect, causing climate change.

Greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

In order to achieve zero actual carbon emissions by 2050, Yale must reduce carbon emissions to zero without having to purchase carbon ______

offsets Signup and view all the answers

Yale's new emissions reductions target includes reaching net zero emissions by ______, or 'zero' emissions after offsets and other campus reductions in emissions are factored in

2035 Signup and view all the answers

Yale's greenhouse gas emissions goal was to reduce emissions by 43% below ______ levels by 2020

2005 Signup and view all the answers

Yale's achievement of its greenhouse gas emissions goal in 2020 was made possible by countless individuals and academic and operational departments on ______

campus Signup and view all the answers

Achieving emissions reductions goals requires a broad cultural shift toward civic engagement and ______

action Signup and view all the answers

The burning of fossil fuels as our primary source of energy both comes from and reinforces basic social understandings and practices developed over time: how human beings have come to relate to the rest of the natural world and to each other. At the heart of this lies a culture of ______

exploitation Signup and view all the answers

Plants and trees, for example, are natural ______. When we have a forest that is cut or burned down, we lose a sink, and we therefore lose some of the ability of the earth to absorb carbon dioxide

carbon sinks Signup and view all the answers

The level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has risen from a couple of 100 parts per million (ppm) in pre-industrial times to over ______ ppm now

400 Signup and view all the answers

The concentration of carbon dioxide and other heat trapping gases in the atmosphere is not something that you and I can directly perceive. It's something that ______ have measured

scientists Signup and view all the answers

Widespread deforestation and changes in land use patterns, therefore, are significant drivers of the ______ crisis

climate Signup and view all the answers

Climate change will lead to more severe weather events and natural disasters, ultimately disrupting communities and ________ around the world.

infrastructure Signup and view all the answers

The stress of increased temperatures and ocean acidification may prove too much for certain species, causing them to ________.

collapse Signup and view all the answers

A change in weather patterns will also have serious consequences for our global ________ system.

food Signup and view all the answers

These disruptions to our homes, infrastructure and food systems will challenge the equitable access to the necessities of life and put great stress on the ________ fabric of humanity.

social Signup and view all the answers

The climate crisis has a number of cascading and interacting effects that are already disrupting the foundations of our civilization and causing massive public health problems–including 8.7 million deaths annually from the fossil fuel particulate matter ________.

alone Signup and view all the answers

In terms of mitigating climate change, Esty adds that in the near future, we should expect incentives to switch to more sustainable forms of transportation, like electric vehicles or biking, as well as ______ energy.

renewable Signup and view all the answers

Sometimes adaptation is described as ______, or hardening ourselves to the changes in weather, temperature, and systems that will undoubtedly come.

resilience Signup and view all the answers

The inequities of climate change are also apparent within access to mitigation and adaptation resources. For example, while adaptation efforts are expected to save money down the line, they take a large amount of ______, which is something that not all communities have.

upfront investment Signup and view all the answers

To meaningfully take on climate change, we need to be hugely ambitious. It is not just the responsibility of government, but also all of society and all of culture. Scientists have agreed that the worst impacts can almost certainly be avoided, but to do that we need the broadest possible ______ engagement.

public Signup and view all the answers

Massie points out that we will also need individuals to stand up for their communities in an activist capacity to demand that their elected officials move away from the interests of and reliance on fossil fuel companies and take ambitious ______ action.

climate Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of scientists who study Earth's climate agree that the planet is warming and that humans are the primary cause?

Around 90% Signup and view all the answers

When did scientific agreement about climate change start to emerge?

Late 1980s Signup and view all the answers

What did the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change conclude in 1995?

There is a significant human influence on global climate Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of publishing climate scientists agree on the existence and cause of climate change?

More than 97% Signup and view all the answers

What is the World Meteorological Organization's stance on climate change?

They endorse the view that humans are the primary cause of climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is the most significant driver of the biodiversity crisis?

Deforestation and changes in land use patterns Signup and view all the answers

What is the key takeaway about the consensus among scientists on climate change?

There is an overwhelming consensus among scientists that humans are the primary cause of climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is the general population's stance on the existence and cause of climate change in the United States?

Nearly 60% agree Signup and view all the answers

What did the early consensus study in 1991 find?

Most scientists accepted the idea of anthropogenic global warming Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the scientific consensus on climate change?

It means that there is a high level of agreement among experts that humans are causing climate change Signup and view all the answers

Where did the idea that there is still debate about climate change come from?

Companies and politicians opposing climate action Signup and view all the answers

What was the rationale behind questioning consensus on climate change, according to Frank Luntz?

To create doubt about climate change among the public Signup and view all the answers

What is the Global Warming Petition Project?

A petition urging the United States government to take action on climate change Signup and view all the answers

What did the Global Warming Petition Project proclaim about climate change?

It wasn't happening Signup and view all the answers

How many people with science degrees have signed the Global Warming Petition Project since 1998?

Over 30,000 Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project studied something other than Earth, atmospheric or environmental science?

50% Signup and view all the answers

How many of the signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project were climatologists?

Less than 40 Signup and view all the answers

What were the professions of most of the signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project?

Engineers and doctors Signup and view all the answers

What is the 97 percent figure that has become a lightning rod in the climate change debate?

The percentage of scientists who agree that climate change is happening and is caused by human activity Signup and view all the answers

What is the problem with using the Global Warming Petition Project to support the idea of lingering scientific doubt about climate change?

The majority of signatories studied something other than Earth, atmospheric or environmental science Signup and view all the answers

More than 90% of scientists who study Earth's climate agree that humans are the primary cause of climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

The World Meteorological Organization endorses the view that humans are the primary cause of climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

The scientific consensus on climate change started to emerge in the 1980s.

True Signup and view all the answers

In 1991, two-thirds of earth and atmospheric scientists surveyed accepted the idea of anthropogenic global warming.

True Signup and view all the answers

By 1995, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded that there is a discernible human influence on global climate.

True Signup and view all the answers

More than 97% of publishing climate scientists agree on the existence and cause of climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

Less than 60% of the general population in the United States agrees with the existence and cause of climate change.

False Signup and view all the answers

Questions in the scientific enterprise, such as what killed the dinosaurs, are often not contested.

False Signup and view all the answers

The influence of human-caused warming has always been higher than natural climate variability.

False Signup and view all the answers

The scientific consensus on climate change is not a result of scientists loving a good argument.

True Signup and view all the answers

Coordinated messaging campaigns by companies and politicians have contributed to the idea that there is still debate about climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

According to Frank Luntz, a Republican consultant, it is important to maintain the perception that scientific issues related to climate change are still unsettled.

True Signup and view all the answers

The Global Warming Petition Project was signed by mostly climatologists and environmental scientists.

False Signup and view all the answers

Many of the signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project had degrees in fields unrelated to Earth, atmospheric, or environmental science.

True Signup and view all the answers

The 97 percent consensus among climate scientists regarding the existence and human causes of climate change has been widely accepted.

False Signup and view all the answers

Some people have claimed that climate change is not happening and, even if it were, it would not be bad for humanity.

True Signup and view all the answers

Since 1998, more than 30,000 people with science degrees have signed the Global Warming Petition Project.

True Signup and view all the answers

The burning of fossil fuels reinforces basic social understandings and practices developed over time.

True Signup and view all the answers

To mitigate climate change, it is only the responsibility of government and not society and culture.

False Signup and view all the answers

The majority of signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project had training in fields such as engineering and medicine.

True Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of publishing climate scientists agree on the existence and cause of climate change?

97% Signup and view all the answers

When did scientific agreement about climate change start to emerge?

1980s Signup and view all the answers

Which organization endorsed the view that the planet is warming and that humans are the primary cause?

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

What was the conclusion of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in 1995?

The balance of evidence suggests that there is a discernible human influence on global climate Signup and view all the answers

What was the percentage of earth and atmospheric scientists surveyed for an early consensus study in 1991 who accepted the idea of anthropogenic global warming?

66% Signup and view all the answers

What is the level of consensus among scientists about climate change?

Very high Signup and view all the answers

What is the nature of the scientific enterprise?

Competitive Signup and view all the answers

What is the general population's agreement on the existence and cause of climate change in the United States?

Nearly 60% Signup and view all the answers

What is the percentage of scientists who study Earth’s climate that agree that humans are the primary cause of climate change?

Around 90% Signup and view all the answers

What is the conclusion of numerous studies about climate change?

Scientists agree that humans are the primary cause of climate change Signup and view all the answers

What was the rationale behind questioning the consensus on climate change, according to Republican consultant Frank Luntz's 2002 memo?

To encourage the public to believe that scientists were still debating climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is the Global Warming Petition Project, and why has it been used to bolster the idea of lingering scientific doubt about climate change?

A petition urging the US government to reject the Kyoto Protocol and claiming that climate change wasn't happening Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project were climatologists?

39% Signup and view all the answers

What types of degrees did the majority of signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project have?

Engineering, medical or other degrees unrelated to climate science Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of the Kyoto Protocol of 1997?

To promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions Signup and view all the answers

What is the 97 percent figure that has become a lightning rod in discussions about climate change?

The percentage of scientists who believe that climate change is happening and is caused by human activities Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason why the 97 percent consensus on climate change has been questioned?

The coordinated messaging campaigns by companies and politicians opposing climate action Signup and view all the answers

What types of degrees did the signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project not have?

Degrees in fields related to climate science Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of the Global Warming Petition Project on the scientific consensus on climate change?

It has had no impact on the scientific consensus on climate change Signup and view all the answers

What types of professionals were among the signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project?

Engineers, doctors, and other professionals with little to no training in climate science Signup and view all the answers

True or false: More than 90% of scientists who study Earth's climate agree that the planet is warming and that humans are the primary cause?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Most major scientific bodies endorse the view that humans are the primary cause of climate change?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Scientific agreement about climate change started to emerge in the early 2000s?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Currently, nearly 60% of the general population of the United States agrees on the existence and cause of climate change?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded that there is no discernible human influence on global climate?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The scientific consensus on climate change is a result of scientists loving a good argument?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The climate crisis has no cascading and interacting effects that are already disrupting the foundations of our civilization and causing massive public health problems?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Nature-based solutions cannot provide up to a third of the mitigation needed until 2030 to achieve the targets of the Paris Agreement?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The World Bank has not invested in nature for more than three decades?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Fossil fuels such as oil and coal are formed from aboveground remains of plants and animals?

False Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of publishing climate scientists agree on the existence and cause of climate change?

More than 97 percent Signup and view all the answers

When did scientific agreement about climate change start to emerge?

In the 1980s Signup and view all the answers

What is the view endorsed by most major scientific bodies, from NASA to the World Meteorological Organization?

The planet is warming and humans are the primary cause Signup and view all the answers

What did the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) conclude in 1995?

There is a discernible human influence on global climate Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of scientists who study Earth's climate agree that humans are the primary cause of climate change?

More than 90 percent Signup and view all the answers

What is the level of consensus among scientists about climate change, given the contrarian, competitive nature of the scientific enterprise?

Very high Signup and view all the answers

What did two-thirds of earth and atmospheric scientists surveyed for an early consensus study say in 1991?

They accepted the idea of anthropogenic global warming Signup and view all the answers

What is the current level of agreement about climate change among the general population of the United States?

Around 60 percent Signup and view all the answers

What is the influence of human-caused warming in relation to natural climate variability, according to the text?

It is higher than natural climate variability Signup and view all the answers

What is the conclusion of numerous studies about climate change?

The planet is warming and humans are the primary cause Signup and view all the answers

What was the rationale behind the messaging campaigns by companies and politicians who opposed climate action?

To promote the idea that scientists were still debating climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is the Global Warming Petition Project?

A petition urging the US government to reject the Kyoto Protocol Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project were climatologists?

Less than 1% Signup and view all the answers

What were the professions of most signatories to the Global Warming Petition Project?

Engineers, doctors, and others whose training had little to do with the physics of the climate system Signup and view all the answers

What is the main message pushed by those who question the scientific consensus on climate change?

That scientists still haven't made up their minds about climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of nature-based solutions to address climate change?

To use natural systems to mitigate the impacts of climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 97 percent figure in discussions about climate change?

It represents the percentage of climate scientists who agree that climate change is happening and is caused by human activity Signup and view all the answers

What is the Global Warming Petition Project's stance on climate change?

It claims that climate change isn't happening, and even if it were, it wouldn't be bad for humanity Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of climate change, according to the text?

Greenhouse gases emitted from burning fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of coordinated messaging campaigns by companies and politicians who oppose climate action?

To sow doubt about the scientific consensus on climate change Signup and view all the answers

True or false: There is virtually no debate among scientists about climate change?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: More than 90 percent of scientists who study Earth’s climate agree that the planet is warming and that humans are the primary cause?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded in 1995 that there is a discernible human influence on global climate?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Currently, nearly 60 percent of the general population of the United States agrees on the existence and cause of climate change?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Scientific agreement about climate change started to emerge in the early 2000s?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Nature-based solutions offer a way of addressing the climate and biodiversity crises separately?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Mangroves cannot reduce the impact of coastal erosion and support biodiversity?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Mitigation includes efforts to increase and protect carbon sinks?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The risks of climate change and biodiversity loss are insignificant and cannot be addressed through nature-based solutions?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Climate is the pattern of weather conditions over a long period of time?

False Signup and view all the answers

Frank Luntz, a Democratic consultant, explained the rationale for questioning the consensus on climate change in a 2002 memo to conservative lawmakers.

False Signup and view all the answers

Some people have pointed to the Global Warming Petition Project as evidence that there is still scientific doubt about climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

The majority of the signatories of the Global Warming Petition Project were climatologists.

False Signup and view all the answers

The Global Warming Petition Project urged the United States government to reject the Paris Agreement on climate change.

False Signup and view all the answers

The 97 percent consensus on climate change refers to the percentage of scientists who agree that climate change is happening and is caused by human activity.

True Signup and view all the answers

Most of the signatories of the Global Warming Petition Project had science degrees related to Earth, atmospheric, or environmental science.

False Signup and view all the answers

Coordinated messaging campaigns by companies and politicians have contributed to the idea that there is still debate about climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

The Kyoto Protocol of 1997 was an early international climate agreement that aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

True Signup and view all the answers

The Global Warming Petition Project claimed that even if climate change were happening, it wouldn't be bad for humanity.

True Signup and view all the answers

The 97 percent figure has become a lightning rod in the climate change debate because some people have used it to bolster the falsehood of lingering scientific doubt about climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is carbon dioxide?

A gas that is crucial to maintaining Earth's atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of greenhouse gases?

To trap heat from the Sun Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of the rise in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

The burning of fossil fuels and deforestation Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of plants in the carbon cycle?

Plants take in carbon dioxide and give away oxygen Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas?

It warms Earth's atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of big increases in carbon dioxide on Earth's climate?

It leads to an increase in Earth's temperature Signup and view all the answers

What is the cycling of carbon?

The process of carbon moving in and out of the air over time Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of human activities on the balance of carbon in the air and in plants and the ocean?

It leads to an increase in carbon in the air and a decrease in carbon in plants and the ocean Signup and view all the answers

What is the nickname for carbon dioxide and why is it called that?

C-O-2 because it has 2 atoms Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of rising carbon dioxide levels on Earth's climate?

It leads to an increase in Earth's temperature Signup and view all the answers

What is the greenhouse effect?

The process by which CO2 and other gases trap heat close to Earth Signup and view all the answers

What happens when CO2 levels in the atmosphere increase?

The temperature of Earth also goes up Signup and view all the answers

How does the ocean contribute to the increase of CO2 in the atmosphere?

As ocean temperatures increase, oceans release stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory 2 (OCO-2) studying?

How carbon moves around the planet and its interaction with weather and climate Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of OCO-2?

To measure CO2 and better observe Earth's carbon cycle Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of a small increase in CO2 in the atmosphere?

It can make Earth even warmer Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of nature-based solutions in addressing climate change?

To protect, sustainably manage, or restore natural ecosystems that address societal challenges such as climate change Signup and view all the answers

How can technology like OCO-2 help us understand the interaction between carbon and climate?

By measuring and mapping carbon dioxide from space Signup and view all the answers

What is the downside of CO2 and other greenhouse gases?

They can make Earth too warm Signup and view all the answers

What would happen if it weren't for the greenhouse effect?

Earth's ocean would be frozen solid Signup and view all the answers

Carbon is found only in living things on Earth.

False Signup and view all the answers

Plants take in carbon dioxide and give away oxygen.

True Signup and view all the answers

Carbon dioxide is an important gas for life on the planet.

True Signup and view all the answers

Carbon dioxide is one of the primary greenhouse gases on Earth.

True Signup and view all the answers

Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, have no impact on the amount of carbon in the air.

False Signup and view all the answers

Big increases in CO2 in our atmosphere can negatively affect Earth's climate.

True Signup and view all the answers

CO2 is not a greenhouse gas.

False Signup and view all the answers

The balance between how much carbon is in the air and how much is stored in plants and oceans has remained constant over time.

False Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases trap heat from the Sun.

True Signup and view all the answers

Human activities like burning fossil fuels and cutting down forests are changing the balance of carbon in the air.

True Signup and view all the answers

CO2 in the atmosphere helps our planet hold onto some of the heat it gets from the Sun

True Signup and view all the answers

Earth's ocean would be frozen solid without the greenhouse effect

True Signup and view all the answers

CO2 and other greenhouse gases are always good for the planet

False Signup and view all the answers

Whenever the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere has gone up, the temperature of Earth has also gone up

True Signup and view all the answers

The ocean plays a role in the carbon cycle, releasing stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere as temperatures rise

True Signup and view all the answers

NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory 2 (OCO-2) measures CO2 to better observe Earth's carbon cycle

True Signup and view all the answers

OCO-2 is a research satellite that studies how carbon moves around the planet from space

True Signup and view all the answers

Using technology like OCO-2, we can measure and map carbon dioxide from space to help us understand the interaction between carbon and climate

True Signup and view all the answers

NASA's OCO-2 satellite helps predict future CO2 increases and their impact on Earth's climate

True Signup and view all the answers

A small increase in CO2 in the atmosphere can make Earth even warmer

True Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the greenhouse effect?

A process where gases in the atmosphere trap heat similar to the glass roof of a greenhouse Signup and view all the answers

What are the heat-trapping gases called?

Greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

What is the average temperature of Earth due to the greenhouse effect?

58 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius) Signup and view all the answers

How are humans impacting the greenhouse effect?

By burning fossil fuels like coal and oil, which puts more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the gas that is primarily responsible for the greenhouse effect?

Carbon dioxide Signup and view all the answers

What happens to Earth's surface at night?

It cools down and releases heat back into the air Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a greenhouse?

To grow plants in a warm environment Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the heat released by Earth's surface at night?

It is trapped by the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the greenhouse effect on Earth caused by?

Excess greenhouse gases in the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What can help to balance the greenhouse effect on Earth?

Plants on Earth Signup and view all the answers

What is ocean acidification?

A decrease in the pH of ocean water Signup and view all the answers

What can be harmful to many ocean creatures due to ocean acidification?

Certain shellfish and coral Signup and view all the answers

What is coral bleaching?

A process where coral loses its color and dies Signup and view all the answers

What can the ocean do to excess carbon dioxide in the air?

Absorb it Signup and view all the answers

What can help to mitigate the greenhouse effect on Earth?

Planting more trees Signup and view all the answers

What is the downside of ocean acidification?

It harms certain ocean creatures Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of warmer waters on ocean creatures?

It can cause coral bleaching Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases can cause Earth's atmosphere to trap more heat, leading to warming

True Signup and view all the answers

Plants can help balance the greenhouse effect on Earth by taking in carbon dioxide and giving off oxygen

True Signup and view all the answers

All plants, including phytoplankton, take in carbon dioxide

True Signup and view all the answers

The ocean absorbs excess carbon dioxide from the air, but this can also lead to ocean acidification

True Signup and view all the answers

Ocean acidification is not harmful to any ocean creatures

False Signup and view all the answers

Warming oceans can cause coral bleaching

True Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions cannot address both the climate and biodiversity crises

False Signup and view all the answers

Moving towards a clean energy grid involves relying solely on fossil fuels

False Signup and view all the answers

The majority of scientific bodies endorse the view that climate change is caused by humans

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The greenhouse effect works like a greenhouse, trapping heat inside?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trap heat similar to the glass roof of a greenhouse?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, are increasing the amount of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The greenhouse effect is necessary for life on Earth, keeping the planet at a warm and cozy temperature?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: During the day, the Sun shines through the atmosphere and warms up Earth's surface?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: At night, Earth's surface cools and releases heat back into the air, but some of the heat is trapped by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Greenhouses are only used to grow tropical flowers and not vegetables like tomatoes?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The average temperature of Earth is 58 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius) because of the greenhouse effect?

True Signup and view all the answers

Scientists can study Earth's climate history by analyzing the insides of trees that have been alive for hundreds of years.

True Signup and view all the answers

Sediment cores come from drilling deep into the surface of the ice in places like Antarctica.

False Signup and view all the answers

Ice cores can give scientists clues about every year of Earth's history back to the time the deepest layer was formed.

True Signup and view all the answers

Scientists analyze the air bubbles in each layer of ice cores to see how much CO2 they contain.

True Signup and view all the answers

Paleoclimatologists study Earth's climate history using information from trees, ice cores, and lake and ocean sediment.

True Signup and view all the answers

The oceans absorb heat, which causes sea ice to begin melting in the Arctic.

True Signup and view all the answers

Glaciers flow over land like rivers and can melt and shrink due to warmer temperatures.

True Signup and view all the answers

Sea level rise is another clue that tells us Earth's climate is getting warmer.

True Signup and view all the answers

Melting ice is the only cause of rising sea levels.

False Signup and view all the answers

The global sea level has risen 7 inches in the last 100 years.

True Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases help keep Earth warm enough to live on.

True Signup and view all the answers

Burning fossil fuels like coal and oil increase the amount of oxygen in our air.

False Signup and view all the answers

Too many greenhouse gases can cause too much warming.

True Signup and view all the answers

Several NASA missions have instruments that study CO2 in the atmosphere.

True Signup and view all the answers

Earth's climate has warmed up and cooled down many times over human history.

False Signup and view all the answers

Global air temperatures near Earth's surface have gone up about 2 degrees Fahrenheit in the last century.

True Signup and view all the answers

A couple of degrees of temperature change can have big impacts on the health of Earth's plants and animals.

True Signup and view all the answers

We know what Earth's past climate was like by studying things that have been around for a long time.

True Signup and view all the answers

The burning of fossil fuels like coal and oil decrease the amount of CO2 in our air.

False Signup and view all the answers

Too much CO2 can cause too much warming on Earth.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason Earth is getting warmer?

Extra greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

What happens when there are too many greenhouse gases in our atmosphere?

They cause too much warming Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of the increase in CO2 in our air?

Burning of fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to monitor CO2 levels in our atmosphere?

Too much CO2 can cause too much warming on Earth Signup and view all the answers

How much have global air temperatures near Earth's surface gone up in the last century?

2 degrees Fahrenheit Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of a couple of degrees of warming on Earth's plants and animals?

Big impact Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of NASA missions in studying CO2 in the atmosphere?

To monitor CO2 levels Signup and view all the answers

How do scientists know what Earth's past climate was like?

By studying air bubbles in each layer of ice cores Signup and view all the answers

What is the current rate of warming compared to Earth's natural warming and cooling cycles?

It is faster than natural cycles Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of too much CO2 on Earth's climate?

Negative impact Signup and view all the answers

What do scientists study to learn about Earth's climate hundreds of thousands to millions of years ago?

Sediment cores and ice cores Signup and view all the answers

What do ice cores contain that give clues about Earth's history?

Bubbles of air from each year Signup and view all the answers

What do paleoclimatologists study to learn about Earth's climate?

Ice cores, trees, and sediment Signup and view all the answers

What causes sea ice in the Arctic to begin melting?

Warmer ocean temperatures Signup and view all the answers

What are glaciers and how do they melt?

Frozen rivers that flow quickly and break into chunks Signup and view all the answers

What is a cause of rising sea levels other than melting ice?

Warmer ocean temperatures Signup and view all the answers

What do nature-based solutions address in terms of societal challenges?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the NASA satellite that measures CO2 to better observe Earth's carbon cycle?

Orbiting Carbon Observatory 2 (OCO-2) Signup and view all the answers

What has happened to the September Arctic ice since 1979?

It has gotten smaller and thinner Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of Yale in achieving zero actual carbon emissions by 2050?

To reduce carbon emissions to zero without offsets Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason that Earth is getting warmer?

The burning of fossil fuels like coal and oil Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal function of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere?

To keep Earth warm enough to live on Signup and view all the answers

What happens when there are too many greenhouse gases in our atmosphere?

Too much warming can occur Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of the increase in global air temperatures on Earth's plants and animals?

It can have big impacts on their health Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of studying things that have been around for a long time to understand Earth's past climate?

We can know what Earth's past climate was like Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of too much CO2 in the atmosphere?

Too much warming can occur Signup and view all the answers

What is the current rate of warming compared to Earth's past climate history?

The planet is warming much faster than it has over human history Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of NASA missions' instruments that study CO2 in the atmosphere?

To monitor CO2 levels in the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of melting glaciers on Earth?

It can cause sea levels to rise Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of the increase in global air temperatures on Earth's climate?

It can cause Earth's climate to change Signup and view all the answers

What do scientists study to learn about Earth's climate from hundreds of thousands to millions of years ago?

Sediment cores and ice cores Signup and view all the answers

What do the layers in an ice core give clues about?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What do paleoclimatologists do?

Use trees, ice cores, and sediment to study Earth's climate Signup and view all the answers

What causes sea ice to begin to melt in the Arctic?

Warmer water Signup and view all the answers

What are glaciers?

Frozen rivers Signup and view all the answers

What is causing the global sea level to rise?

Both melting ice and expanding water Signup and view all the answers

How much has the sea level risen in the last 100 years according to scientists?

7 inches Signup and view all the answers

What do scientists do if their findings about Earth's climate history don't agree?

They do more studies and collect more information Signup and view all the answers

What do ice cores contain that give clues about Earth's history?

Bubbles of the air from each year Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the September ice in the Arctic?

It shrinks every year Signup and view all the answers

What is the greenhouse effect?

A process by which certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat and warm the planet Signup and view all the answers

What are some effects of Earth's warming?

Increased intensity and amount of rainfall during storms Signup and view all the answers

What contributes to Earth's climate?

Multiple factors, including human activities Signup and view all the answers

What is the average temperature increase near Earth's surface in the past 100 years?

2 degrees Fahrenheit Signup and view all the answers

What do scientists use to observe how Earth's systems work together?

NASA's Earth observing satellites Signup and view all the answers

What are some human activities that contribute to the greenhouse effect?

Burning fuel to power factories, cars, and buses Signup and view all the answers

What is the concern among scientists and many people regarding Earth's warming?

It could have negative impacts on Earth's plants and animals Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected impact of Earth's warming on storms such as hurricanes?

Increased intensity and amount of rainfall during storms Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the past five years being the warmest five years in centuries?

It suggests that Earth's warming is accelerating Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of Earth's warming in the past 50 to 100 years according to scientists?

Human activities Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather describes conditions in a specific place at a specific time, while climate describes expected weather conditions over a long period of time. Signup and view all the answers

What determines a region's climate?

Observing its weather over a period of many years Signup and view all the answers

What is climate change?

A change in the average conditions in a region over a long period of time Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a weather event?

Rain Signup and view all the answers

How long does it generally take to observe a region's weather to determine its climate?

30 years or more Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between weather and climate in terms of time frame?

Weather is short-term, while climate is long-term Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a climate condition?

Typically hot or typically cold Signup and view all the answers

What is global climate change?

Average long-term changes over the entire Earth Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a region's climate?

Dry, desert climate in Phoenix Signup and view all the answers

What is the time frame for observing a region's weather to determine its climate?

30 years or more Signup and view all the answers

Is weather the same as climate?

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate describes the weather conditions that are expected in a region at a particular time of year.

True Signup and view all the answers

A region's climate is determined by observing its weather over a period of many years.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change refers to the average long-term changes over the entire Earth.

True Signup and view all the answers

Global climate change only refers to changes in the United States.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate change describes a change in the average conditions in a region over a short period of time.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate change can cause changes in rainfall patterns.

True Signup and view all the answers

The American pika can die when exposed to temperatures warmer than a certain temperature.

True Signup and view all the answers

Nature-based solutions can help address both the climate and biodiversity crises.

True Signup and view all the answers

Plants and trees cannot absorb all of the extra carbon dioxide in the atmosphere caused by burning fossil fuels.

True Signup and view all the answers

Is Earth's climate constantly changing?

True Signup and view all the answers

Has Earth's average temperature been increasing much more quickly than expected over the past 150 years?

True Signup and view all the answers

Have the past five years been the warmest five years in centuries?

True Signup and view all the answers

Are many people, including scientists, concerned about this warming?

True Signup and view all the answers

Are droughts and heat waves expected to become more intense as the climate warms?

True Signup and view all the answers

Is the greenhouse effect caused by certain gases in Earth's atmosphere that block heat from escaping?

True Signup and view all the answers

Are human activities changing the natural greenhouse?

True Signup and view all the answers

Does Earth's climate function like one big, connected system?

True Signup and view all the answers

Do NASA's Earth observing satellites collect information about how our planet's atmosphere, water and land are changing?

True Signup and view all the answers

Can observing how Earth's systems work together help us understand how small changes in one place can contribute to bigger changes in Earth's global climate?

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the greenhouse effect?

The process by which certain gases in Earth’s atmosphere trap heat from the Sun, keeping Earth warm Signup and view all the answers

What is the cause of the unusual changes in Earth's climate observed by scientists?

Human activities such as burning fuel to power factories, cars and buses Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected impact of Earth's warming on storms such as hurricanes?

The intensity and amount of rainfall during storms is expected to increase Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of a one or two degree change in the whole Earth's temperature?

It can have big impacts on the health of Earth's plants and animals Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of Earth's climate getting warmer in the past 50 to 100 years?

Human activities such as burning fuel to power factories, cars and buses Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of NASA's Earth observing satellites in understanding Earth's climate?

They collect information about how our planet’s atmosphere, water and land are changing Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of Earth's warming on droughts and heat waves?

They are expected to become more intense as the climate warms Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of human activities on Earth's natural greenhouse?

They are changing the natural greenhouse, causing the atmosphere to trap more heat than it used to Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of global warming on the patterns of ocean currents?

Warmer water changes the patterns of ocean currents, affecting global weather patterns Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of thinking about Earth's climate as a system?

It means looking for how every part relates to others Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather describes current atmospheric conditions in a specific location, while climate describes long-term patterns of weather in a region. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a weather event?

A hurricane hitting a coastal city. Signup and view all the answers

What determines a region's climate?

The weather conditions over a period of 30 years or more. Signup and view all the answers

What is climate change?

A change in the average conditions in a region over a long period of time. Signup and view all the answers

What is global climate change?

A change in the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere over a long period of time that affects the entire Earth. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of global climate change?

A region experiencing a decrease in the number of glaciers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the time period over which a region's climate is observed to determine its climate?

30 years or more Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of the video 'What Is Climate Change'?

The definition of climate change and its causes. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between weather and climate?

Weather describes current atmospheric conditions, while climate describes long-term patterns of weather. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a region's climate?

A region experiencing a dry, desert climate. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between weather and climate?

Weather is temporary, while climate is long-term Signup and view all the answers

What is climate change?

A change in the typical weather for a region over a long period of time Signup and view all the answers

What is global warming?

A rise in global temperature Signup and view all the answers

What do scientists use to collect information about Earth's climate?

NASA satellites and other instruments Signup and view all the answers

What do greenhouse gases do?

Trap heat from the Sun Signup and view all the answers

How long is the typical timeframe for climate?

30 years or more Signup and view all the answers

What have scientists observed about Earth's climate?

It is warming Signup and view all the answers

What is the timeframe for NASA scientists studying Earth's climate?

More than 40 years Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of weather?

Temporary atmospheric conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of greenhouse gases?

They keep Earth warm enough to live on Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of the Earth's warming?

Human activities Signup and view all the answers

What are fossil fuels?

Remains of plants and animals buried underground Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of burning fossil fuels on the climate?

It increases the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of climate change on sea levels?

They are rising due to melting ice and warm water expansion Signup and view all the answers

What is ocean acidification?

A change in the ocean's pH due to absorption of carbon dioxide Signup and view all the answers

What is the current rate of warming compared to human history?

The planet is warming much faster than it has over human history Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of a temperature increase of a couple of degrees on Earth's plants and animals?

It can have big impacts on their health Signup and view all the answers

What is the cause of sea level rise due to melting ice?

Melting glaciers and ice sheets Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of warm water on sea levels?

Warm water takes up more room in our oceans, making sea levels higher Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of greenhouse gases on the planet?

They trap the Sun's heat, leading to a warmer Earth Signup and view all the answers

Climate describes the typical weather conditions in an entire region for a very long time – 30 years or more.

True Signup and view all the answers

Global warming refers to a rise in global temperature.

True Signup and view all the answers

NASA scientists have been studying Earth's climate for more than 20 years.

False Signup and view all the answers

Weather and climate are the same thing.

False Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases trap heat from the Sun and keep Earth warm enough to live on.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change describes a change in the typical weather for a region over a long period of time.

True Signup and view all the answers

Many of the warmest years on record have occurred in the past 20 years.

True Signup and view all the answers

Blizzards can turn into floods after a few warm spring days.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change is only temporary.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate change can refer to changes in temperature and rainfall in a region.

True Signup and view all the answers

Human activities like burning fossil fuels create extra greenhouse gases

True Signup and view all the answers

Carbon is not present in all living things on Earth

False Signup and view all the answers

Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere

True Signup and view all the answers

Plants and trees can absorb all of the extra carbon dioxide in the atmosphere caused by burning fossil fuels

False Signup and view all the answers

Sea levels are rising due to melting ice and warm water taking up more room in the ocean

True Signup and view all the answers

Ocean water is becoming more acidic as it absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere

True Signup and view all the answers

Earth's climate has only warmed up when the Sun was very active

False Signup and view all the answers

The planet is warming much faster than it has over human history

True Signup and view all the answers

The average air temperature near Earth's surface has increased about 2 degrees Fahrenheit in the last century

True Signup and view all the answers

A change of a couple of degrees over a hundred years can have big impacts on Earth's plants and animals

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather is temporary, while climate describes typical weather conditions in an entire region for a very long time Signup and view all the answers

What is climate change?

A change in the typical weather for a region over a long period of time Signup and view all the answers

What is global warming?

The rise in global temperature caused by the trapping of heat from the Sun by greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

What do scientists use to collect information about Earth's climate?

NASA satellites and other instruments Signup and view all the answers

What do greenhouse gases do?

Trap heat from the Sun, keeping Earth warm enough to live on Signup and view all the answers

What have scientists observed about Earth's climate?

Overall, Earth is warming Signup and view all the answers

What is the timeframe for climate?

30 years or more Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of global warming?

The trapping of heat from the Sun by greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of NASA in studying Earth's climate?

NASA scientists have been studying Earth's climate for more than 40 years and use satellites and other instruments to collect information Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of greenhouse gases for life on Earth?

Greenhouse gases keep Earth warm enough to live on Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of sea level rise, as described in the text?

Melting ice Signup and view all the answers

What is ocean acidification and why is it harmful for plants and animals?

Ocean water becoming more acidic due to absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of burning fossil fuels on Earth's climate, as described in the text?

Releasing carbon dioxide into the air as a greenhouse gas that warms up the planet Signup and view all the answers

What are fossil fuels and how are they formed, as described in the text?

Remains of plants and animals that turned into coal and oil over millions of years Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of a 2-degree Fahrenheit increase in average air temperature near Earth's surface, as described in the text?

Big impacts on the health of Earth's plants and animals Signup and view all the answers

What is the cause of Earth's warming in the past 50 to 100 years, as described in the text?

Human activities, such as the destruction of forests and burning fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of melting ice on sea level rise, as described in the text?

Melting ice from glaciers and ice sheets that sit on the land flows into the oceans, making sea levels higher Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of warm water on sea level rise, as described in the text?

Warm water takes up more room in our oceans, making sea levels higher Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of extra carbon dioxide in the atmosphere on Earth's climate, as described in the text?

Extra carbon dioxide in the atmosphere acts as a greenhouse gas that warms up the planet Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of ocean acidification on plants and animals, as described in the text?

Ocean acidification can be harmful for plants and animals Signup and view all the answers

Human activities such as burning fossil fuels create extra greenhouse gases, leading to a warmer Earth.

True Signup and view all the answers

Carbon is not found in living things on Earth.

False Signup and view all the answers

Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide, which is a greenhouse gas that warms up the planet.

True Signup and view all the answers

Earth's climate has never warmed up and cooled down before.

False Signup and view all the answers

Over millions of years, Earth's climate has warmed up and cooled down many times.

True Signup and view all the answers

The planet is warming faster now than it has over human history.

True Signup and view all the answers

Sea levels are rising partly due to melting ice and water expanding as it gets warmer.

True Signup and view all the answers

Ocean acidification is not harmful for plants and animals.

False Signup and view all the answers

Scientists have observed that the ocean is becoming less acidic as its water absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

False Signup and view all the answers

The average air temperatures near Earth's surface have gone up about 1 degree Fahrenheit in the last century.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate describes the typical weather conditions in an entire region for a very long time – 30 years or more.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change describes a change in the typical weather for a region over a short period of time.

False Signup and view all the answers

Many of the warmest years on record have happened in the past 20 years.

True Signup and view all the answers

NASA scientists have only been studying Earth's climate for 20 years.

False Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases keep Earth warm enough to live on.

True Signup and view all the answers

The greenhouse effect is caused by certain gases in Earth's atmosphere that block heat from escaping.

True Signup and view all the answers

Carbon is present in all living things on Earth.

True Signup and view all the answers

Global warming is the term used to describe the rise in Earth's average surface temperature.

True Signup and view all the answers

Sea level rise is not a sign that Earth's climate is getting warmer.

False Signup and view all the answers

The planet is warming at the same rate as it has over human history.

False Signup and view all the answers

Humanity has occupied a fairly stable climate for the past hundred years

False Signup and view all the answers

Overall, weather systems have been unpredictable and coastlines have shifted in the past ten thousand years

False Signup and view all the answers

The burning of fossil fuels is primarily responsible for the disruption of climate stability

True Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases act like a cooling blanket over the planet

False Signup and view all the answers

The Holocene climate is a basic precondition for agriculture and civilization to flourish

True Signup and view all the answers

Yale met its greenhouse gas emissions goal in 2020 despite an increase in campus size

True Signup and view all the answers

The new emissions reductions target announced by Yale includes achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050

True Signup and view all the answers

The cultural and social context for the climate crisis is unimportant

False Signup and view all the answers

Yale's achievement in reducing emissions was made possible by individual efforts only

False Signup and view all the answers

The mobilization of both activists and the broader public is necessary for a cultural shift toward climate action

True Signup and view all the answers

Adaptation is the only solution to addressing climate change

False Signup and view all the answers

Mitigating climate change only falls under the responsibility of governments

False Signup and view all the answers

Investing in adaptation efforts can be challenging for all communities

True Signup and view all the answers

To achieve a zero-carbon economy, major interventions towards equality are necessary

True Signup and view all the answers

Individuals can play a role in both mitigating and adapting to climate change

True Signup and view all the answers

Massie gives the example of oceans becoming less acidic as they absorb higher levels of carbon dioxide.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate change will not have any impact on local, regional, and global temperatures.

False Signup and view all the answers

Increasing temperatures will only affect the species that live in the Earth's poles.

False Signup and view all the answers

Changes in rainfall patterns and periods of drought may not affect food production.

False Signup and view all the answers

The climate crisis will not have any impact on public health.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate impacts reduce existing inequalities and create new ones, true or false?

False Signup and view all the answers

Communities who contribute least to climate change are often the most equipped to protect themselves, true or false?

False Signup and view all the answers

Geoengineering involves the large-scale manipulation of environmental processes to counteract global warming, true or false?

True Signup and view all the answers

Moving towards a clean energy grid has no implications for transportation, industry, agriculture, construction, or material consumption, true or false?

False Signup and view all the answers

Mitigation efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions only happen at the international scale, true or false?

False Signup and view all the answers

Deforestation and changes in land use patterns are not significant drivers of the climate crisis.

False Signup and view all the answers

Burning of fossil fuels is the clear physical cause of the climate crisis, but it does not exist independently from our culture.

True Signup and view all the answers

The concentration of carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere can be directly perceived by humans.

False Signup and view all the answers

Scientists can reconstruct human history by examining the physical and chemical makeup of polar ice cores or sediment from the ocean floor.

True Signup and view all the answers

The level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has risen from a couple of 100 parts per million (ppm) in pre-industrial times to over 400ppm now.

True Signup and view all the answers

Which period in geological terms has humanity occupied for about the last ten thousand years?

Holocene period Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary causes of the fundamental changes to the stability of our climate?

Burning of fossil fuels and deforestation Signup and view all the answers

What do greenhouse gases do?

Act like a heat-trapping blanket over the planet Signup and view all the answers

What are the effects of greenhouse gases on the planet?

They cause the planet to warm up Signup and view all the answers

What allowed agriculture and civilization to flourish?

Relative stability in climate Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the more common greenhouse gases?

Carbon dioxide, methane, and chlorofluorocarbons Signup and view all the answers

What is a carbon sink?

A place where carbon is stored and kept out of the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the cause of the climate crisis, according to Massie?

The cultural and social context of our society and culture only Signup and view all the answers

What is the current concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?

Over 400 parts per million Signup and view all the answers

How do scientists track global temperatures and carbon dioxide levels across human history?

By carving out polar ice cores or sediment from the ocean floor Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a community that may be most affected by the devastating impacts of climate change?

Communities that have contributed the least to the climate crisis and are least equipped to protect themselves Signup and view all the answers

What is mitigation in the context of climate change?

The attempt to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions going into the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is a key area of focus in moving towards a clean energy grid?

Transitioning to renewable energy sources Signup and view all the answers

What is geoengineering in the context of climate change?

The attempt to manipulate environmental processes to counteract the effects of global warming Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential downside of geoengineering as a climate change mitigation strategy?

It may have unintended consequences and ethical concerns Signup and view all the answers

What was Yale's greenhouse gas emissions goal and how much did they reduce it by in 2020?

Reducing emissions by 43% below 2005 levels Signup and view all the answers

What is Yale's new emissions reductions target?

Achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050 Signup and view all the answers

Who contributed to Yale's achievement of reducing greenhouse gas emissions?

Countless individuals and academic and operational departments on campus Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between achieving zero actual carbon emissions and reaching net zero emissions?

Achieving zero actual carbon emissions does not include purchasing carbon offsets, while reaching net zero emissions does Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary for a cultural shift toward civic engagement and action?

Both activists and the broader public Signup and view all the answers

What is one example of a measurable impact of climate change discussed in the text?

Melting of glaciers at Earth's poles Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential impact of increased temperatures and ocean acidification on certain species?

They may collapse Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential impact of changes in rainfall patterns on the global food system?

Alteration of lands suitable for food production Signup and view all the answers

What impact will climate change have on coastal communities?

Erosion or engulfment of land Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential impact of climate change on social fabric and access to necessities of life?

Challenges to equitable access to necessities of life Signup and view all the answers

What is adaptation in the context of climate change?

Figuring out how to live with the impacts of climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of adaptation that could be implemented in urban areas?

Adding additional green spaces to cool down urban areas Signup and view all the answers

What is a challenge that some communities face when it comes to investing in adaptation efforts?

Lack of financial resources Signup and view all the answers

What does Rob Massie suggest is necessary for a resilient, zero-carbon economy and society?

Major interventions toward equality and a different set of relationships among humans and with nature Signup and view all the answers

What are some actions that individuals can take to prepare for climate impacts like severe weather?

Prepare themselves, their property, and their community accordingly Signup and view all the answers

What is the Holocene period in geological terms?

A period of relative climate stability Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of the disruption of the Holocene climate stability?

Burning of fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What are greenhouse gases?

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the process of burning fossil fuels to power homes, vehicles, and manufacturing processes?

Fossil fuel energy Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of greenhouse gases on the planet?

They trap heat in the atmosphere and prevent it from leaving Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a consequence of climate change, as mentioned in the text?

Decreased intensity of windstorms Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of increased temperatures and ocean acidification on certain species?

They collapse and become extinct Signup and view all the answers

What is the main concern regarding changes in rainfall patterns and drought, as mentioned in the text?

They may alter the types and amounts of crops that can be grown Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of melting glaciers on coastal communities and ecosystems?

It causes erosion of the land Signup and view all the answers

What is the main challenge posed by the climate crisis, as mentioned in the text?

Disruptions to homes, infrastructure, and food systems Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of adaptation to climate change?

Moving or retrofitting coastal homes under increased flood risk Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of public engagement in mitigating climate change?

It is important for all of society Signup and view all the answers

What is the downside of the inequities of climate change?

They affect access to mitigation and adaptation resources Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of standing up for communities in an activist capacity?

It is important to demand that elected officials take ambitious climate action Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of technology in addressing climate change?

It is necessary, but we also need the will to implement it at the required scale and speed Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was a notable contribution to Yale's achievement of its greenhouse gas emissions goal in 2020?

Reducing campus footprint by 43% Signup and view all the answers

What is Yale's new emissions reductions target announced in summer 2021?

Achieving zero actual carbon emissions by 2050 Signup and view all the answers

What is the key to achieving a cultural shift toward civic engagement and action for climate justice, according to the text?

Mobilization of activists and the broader public Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between achieving zero actual carbon emissions and net zero emissions, according to the text?

Zero actual carbon emissions does not require purchasing carbon offsets Signup and view all the answers

What was necessary for Yale to achieve its greenhouse gas emissions goal in 2020, according to the text?

Countless individuals and academic and operational departments on campus Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of how climate impacts intensify existing inequalities?

Communities least responsible for climate change may experience the worst effects Signup and view all the answers

What is mitigation in the context of climate change?

Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect carbon sinks Signup and view all the answers

What is a key area of focus in the shift towards a clean energy grid?

Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power Signup and view all the answers

What is geoengineering in the context of climate change?

The deliberate large-scale manipulation of an environmental process that affects the Earth's climate, in an attempt to counteract the effects of global warming Signup and view all the answers

What are some potential ethical concerns associated with geoengineering?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a natural carbon sink that helps absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?

Forests Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the more common greenhouse gases?

Carbon dioxide and methane Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of the climate crisis according to Massie?

Exploitation and dehumanization in culture Signup and view all the answers

What is a way that scientists can track global temperatures and carbon dioxide levels across human history?

By analyzing polar ice cores or sediment from the ocean floor Signup and view all the answers

What is the current concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere compared to pre-industrial times?

Over 500 parts per million (ppm) Signup and view all the answers

Has humanity occupied a fairly stable climate for the past ten thousand years?

True Signup and view all the answers

What allowed agriculture and civilization to flourish?

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of fundamental changes to the stability of our climate?

False Signup and view all the answers

Do greenhouse gases act like a heat-trapping blanket over the planet?

True Signup and view all the answers

Is the burning of fossil fuels a recent development in human history?

False Signup and view all the answers

Is climate change exacerbating social inequalities?

True Signup and view all the answers

Is Little Haiti in Miami under pressure to relocate due to sea level rise and real estate development?

True Signup and view all the answers

Does the fossil fuel economy require sacrifice zones and hierarchies?

True Signup and view all the answers

Is mitigation an attempt to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect carbon sinks?

True Signup and view all the answers

Is geoengineering a strategy to deal with greenhouse gases that have already been emitted?

True Signup and view all the answers

Did Yale meet its greenhouse gas emissions goal in 2020?

True Signup and view all the answers

Was there a growth in the campus footprint despite the reduction of emissions?

True Signup and view all the answers

Did Yale announce a new emissions reductions target in summer 2021?

True Signup and view all the answers

Does this target include achieving zero actual carbon emissions by 2050?

True Signup and view all the answers

Will Yale reach net zero emissions by 2035?

True Signup and view all the answers

Adaptation is the only way to address the impacts of climate change.

False Signup and view all the answers

Only government can be responsible for taking action on climate change.

False Signup and view all the answers

Mitigating climate change will involve incentives to switch to sustainable transportation.

True Signup and view all the answers

Meat consumption is not a significant factor in greenhouse gas emissions.

False Signup and view all the answers

Individuals must prepare themselves for climate impacts like severe weather.

True Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases all have the same heat-trapping capacity.

False Signup and view all the answers

Deforestation and changes in land use patterns are significant drivers of the climate crisis.

True Signup and view all the answers

The burning of fossil fuels as our primary source of energy does not exist independently from our culture.

True Signup and view all the answers

The concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is something that can be directly perceived by the average person.

False Signup and view all the answers

The level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has risen from a couple of 100 parts per million (ppm) in pre-industrial times to over 400 ppm now.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change has and will continue to alter weather patterns and increase temperatures.

True Signup and view all the answers

Increased intensity of windstorms, hurricanes, flooding, and forest fires are examples of severe weather events caused by climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

Species and ecosystems that humans don't directly connect to or rely on will not be impacted by climate change.

False Signup and view all the answers

Changes in rainfall patterns and drought may alter suitable lands for food production and the types of crops that can be grown.

True Signup and view all the answers

The stress of increased temperatures and ocean acidification may cause certain species to collapse.

True Signup and view all the answers

Is the burning of fossil fuels and destruction of carbon sinks the clear physical cause of climate change?

True Signup and view all the answers

Are plants and trees natural carbon sources?

False Signup and view all the answers

Is the cultural and social context for the climate crisis unimportant?

False Signup and view all the answers

Can the entire organization of society and culture be understood as the cause of climate change?

True Signup and view all the answers

Is the rise in the level of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere clear evidence of climate change?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Humanity has occupied a stable climate for approximately the last 100,000 years?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The stability of the Holocene climate has allowed for the development of agriculture and civilization?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The primary cause of the disruption to the stability of our climate is the burning of fossil fuels?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Greenhouse gases emitted by burning fossil fuels act like a heat-trapping blanket over the planet?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The burning of fossil fuels as our primary source of energy is independent from our culture?

False Signup and view all the answers

Massive amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are causing glaciers to crack and melt, leading to sea level rise.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change will not have any impact on global food systems.

False Signup and view all the answers

Increased temperatures and ocean acidification may cause certain species to collapse.

True Signup and view all the answers

The stress of increased temperatures and ocean acidification will only affect species that humans directly connect to or rely on.

False Signup and view all the answers

The climate crisis is already disrupting the foundations of our civilization and causing massive public health problems, including millions of deaths annually from fossil fuel particulate matter.

True Signup and view all the answers

Is adaptation the only solution to climate change?

False Signup and view all the answers

Are all communities able to invest in upfront adaptation efforts?

False Signup and view all the answers

Does mitigating climate change only require action from government and not society as a whole?

False Signup and view all the answers

Will incentives for sustainable transportation and renewable energy be important for mitigating climate change in the near future?

True Signup and view all the answers

Is it important for individuals to prepare for climate impacts and for communities to demand ambitious climate action from elected officials?

True Signup and view all the answers

Yale achieved its greenhouse gas emissions goal by reducing emissions by 21% below 2005 levels

False Signup and view all the answers

Yale announced a new emissions reduction target in summer 2021 that includes achieving zero actual carbon emissions by 2035

False Signup and view all the answers

The achievement of reducing emissions by 43% below 2005 levels was solely due to the efforts of Yale's operational departments

False Signup and view all the answers

To achieve zero actual carbon emissions, Yale will need to purchase carbon offsets

False Signup and view all the answers

The cultural shift toward civic engagement and action is only necessary for activists and not the broader public

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate impacts reduce existing inequalities and create more equitable societies, true or false?

False Signup and view all the answers

Is it true that Island Nations contribute the most to climate change?

False Signup and view all the answers

Moving towards a clean energy grid means relying on renewable energy sources that emit greenhouse gases, true or false?

False Signup and view all the answers

Geoengineering is a strategy that involves the deliberate large-scale manipulation of an environmental process to counteract the effects of global warming, true or false?

True Signup and view all the answers

While geoengineering may help to reduce some of the severe impacts of climate change, it does not come with ethical concerns, true or false?

False Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a primary cause of the disruption of the Holocene climate stability, as described in the text?

Burning of fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the main effect of greenhouse gases on the planet, as described in the text?

They act like a heat-trapping blanket over the planet Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Holocene climate, as described in the text?

It allowed for the development of agriculture and civilization Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions, as described in the text?

Burning of fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of greenhouse gases on the planet's temperature, as described in the text?

They cause the planet's temperature to increase Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a consequence of ocean acidification caused by increased levels of carbon dioxide?

Bleaching of coral reefs Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of increasing temperatures on glaciers at the Earth's poles?

It will cause global sea level rise Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential consequence of increased temperatures and ocean acidification on certain species?

They will collapse Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of a change in weather patterns on the global food system?

It will alter the lands suitable for food production and the types and amounts of crops that can successfully grow Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential impact of climate change on the social fabric of humanity?

It will challenge the equitable access to the necessities of life and put great stress on the social fabric of humanity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a potential solution for mitigating the effects of climate change?

Expanding fossil fuel extraction Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of climate change mitigation efforts at various scales?

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions Signup and view all the answers

What is geoengineering?

The manipulation of environmental processes to counteract the effects of global warming Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between climate change and social inequality?

Communities least responsible for climate change are often most affected by it Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential downside of geoengineering?

It could lead to unintended consequences and ethical concerns Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of adaptation in addressing climate change?

Adaptation involves preparing for and living with the impacts of climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is one example of an inequity in access to climate change resources?

Some communities lack the upfront investment for adaptation efforts Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact associated with one's food choices that may become a public concern?

The impact of high greenhouse gas emitting products, such as meat consumption Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary for individuals to do in terms of adapting to climate change impacts?

Think about their risk to climate impacts and prepare themselves, their property, and their community accordingly Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary for meaningful action on climate change?

Public engagement Signup and view all the answers

What was Yale's greenhouse gas emissions goal in 2020 and how much did they reduce emissions by?

Reducing emissions by 43% below 2005 levels Signup and view all the answers

What was Yale's new emissions reductions target announced in summer 2021?

Achieving zero actual carbon emissions by 2050 Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between achieving zero actual carbon emissions and reaching net zero emissions?

Achieving zero actual carbon emissions means reducing carbon emissions to zero without having to purchase carbon offsets, while net zero emissions includes offsets and other campus reductions in emissions Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of the broader public in achieving Yale's greenhouse gas emissions goal in 2020?

The broader public played a critical role in achieving the goal alongside activists and academic and operational departments on campus Signup and view all the answers

What was the contribution of Yale's summer 2021 announcement to their emissions reductions target?

Yale's summer 2021 announcement included a more ambitious emissions reductions target than their previous target Signup and view all the answers

What are carbon sinks, and why are they important in the context of climate change?

Places where carbon is stored naturally, and they are important because they keep carbon out of the atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the burning of fossil fuels and the culture of exploitation, according to Massie?

The burning of fossil fuels reinforces basic social understandings and practices developed over time, such as the sense that the rest of nature exists for human use alone and that some human beings exist as resources for others with more social power Signup and view all the answers

What is a carbon sink that is mentioned in the text, and how is it affected by human activity?

Forests are a natural carbon sink, and they are affected by human activity through deforestation and changes in land use patterns Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, according to Esty?

The level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has risen dramatically due to human activity, which is a signal that we have dramatically increased the level of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the burning of fossil fuels and the physical cause of the climate crisis, according to Massie?

Burning fossil fuels and eliminating carbon sinks is the clear physical cause of the climate crisis, but this fossil fuel-based economy does not exist independently from our culture Signup and view all the answers

Which greenhouse gas makes up the largest percentage of global anthropogenic emissions in 2019?

CO2 Signup and view all the answers

What is the largest uncertainty in radiative forcing due to aerosols?

Their indirect effects on cloud formation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of nitrous oxide emissions?

Microbial decomposition of fertiliser Signup and view all the answers

What is primarily causing the current rise in global average temperature?

Burning of fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of climate change on deserts and wildfires?

Deserts are expanding and wildfires are becoming more common Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the effects of increased warming in the Arctic?

Melting permafrost, glacial retreat, and sea ice loss Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a primary balancing mechanism for climate change feedback?

Radiative cooling Signup and view all the answers

What is the largest source of feedback uncertainty in climate change?

Net effect of clouds Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected trend of climate feedbacks in the future?

They will become increasingly positive Signup and view all the answers

What is the main driver of recent climate change according to the text?

Elevated greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of black carbon deposits on snow and ice in the Arctic?

They contribute to Arctic warming Signup and view all the answers

What are external forcings that can cause changes in the climate system?

Changes in the Earth's orbit around the Sun Signup and view all the answers

By how much has the Earth's temperature risen since the pre-industrial period?

1.09°C on average Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason why the Northern Hemisphere has warmed faster than the Southern Hemisphere?

More seasonal snow cover and sea ice in the Northern Hemisphere Signup and view all the answers

What is one way in which flora and fauna are responding to climate change?

Plants are flowering later in spring Signup and view all the answers

Which organization calls climate change the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century?

The World Health Organization (WHO) Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement in terms of limiting global warming?

Limit warming to 1.5°C Signup and view all the answers

What is one way to reduce emissions and limit the impact of climate change?

Generating electricity from low-carbon sources Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the main cause of deforestation?

Permanent land-use change from forest to agricultural land Signup and view all the answers

How does deforestation affect local temperatures?

It causes a warming effect in all regions Signup and view all the answers

What is the evidence that greenhouse gases are causing global warming?

The warming of the lower atmosphere and cooling of the upper atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of testing the physical realism of climate models?

To simulate contemporary or past climates Signup and view all the answers

What did past climate models underestimate?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What did the 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment note about climate models?

Climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of adding societal factors to a simple physical climate model?

To simulate how population, economic growth, and energy use affect and interact with the physical climate Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of producing scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions?

To use as input for physical climate models and carbon cycle models to predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change Signup and view all the answers

What is the main challenge of climate models?

They may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes Signup and view all the answers

What is the subset of climate models that add societal factors to a simple physical climate model called?

Integrated assessment models Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of predicting how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change?

To assess the potential impact of climate change Signup and view all the answers

What is the limitation of climate models in predicting short-term regional climatic shifts?

They may be unable to adequately predict them Signup and view all the answers

Arctic temperatures are increasing at a rate higher than the rest of the world

True Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases trap heat near the Earth's surface

True Signup and view all the answers

Solar forcing is a major cause of climate change

False Signup and view all the answers

Deforestation is the main cause of global warming.

True Signup and view all the answers

Permanent land-use change from forest to agricultural land is the leading cause of deforestation.

True Signup and view all the answers

Solar variations have been responsible for the observed warming of the Earth's troposphere and stratosphere.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate feedbacks can be either positive or negative.

True Signup and view all the answers

Water vapour is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

Models used to estimate future warming take into account natural processes like changes in the Earth's orbit and volcanic forcing.

True Signup and view all the answers

75% of global anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions in 2019 were CO2

True Signup and view all the answers

Methane emissions largely come from livestock, manure, rice cultivation, landfills, wastewater, and coal mining

True Signup and view all the answers

Aerosols and clouds have only indirect effects on the Earth's radiation budget

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate change only refers to global warming caused by human activities

False Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases trap heat in Earth's lower atmosphere, causing global warming

True Signup and view all the answers

The effects of climate change will only last for a few decades

False Signup and view all the answers

Is the climate system warming according to multiple independent instrumental datasets?

True Signup and view all the answers

Have the number of warm days and nights increased since 1950?

True Signup and view all the answers

Has the modern observed rise in temperature and CO2 concentrations been so rapid that even abrupt geophysical events in Earth's history do not approach current rates?

True Signup and view all the answers

Is climate change the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century according to WHO?

True Signup and view all the answers

Adapting to climate change can completely eliminate climate change risks.

False Signup and view all the answers

Limiting warming to 1.5°C will require halving emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate models have accurately predicted all past and current climate patterns

False Signup and view all the answers

Older climate models underestimated sea level rise since 1990

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate models may still be missing relevant feedback processes

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate models are unable to predict short-term regional climatic shifts

True Signup and view all the answers

Some climate models include societal factors to predict future greenhouse gas emissions

True Signup and view all the answers

Physical climate models and carbon cycle models use greenhouse gas emission scenarios as input

True Signup and view all the answers

Socioeconomic scenarios do not impact the predictions of physical climate models

False Signup and view all the answers

Past climate models have overestimated the rate of Arctic shrinkage

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate models have accurately predicted short-term regional climatic shifts

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century according to the World Health Organization?

Climate change. Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary to limit warming to 1.5°C according to the text?

Halving emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between global warming and climate change according to the text?

Global warming refers only to increased surface warming, while climate change describes the totality of changes to Earth's climate system. Signup and view all the answers

What is causing the current rise in global average temperature?

The current rise in global average temperature is primarily caused by humans burning fossil fuels. Signup and view all the answers

What are some effects of climate change?

Due to climate change, deserts are expanding, while heat waves and wildfires are becoming more common. Increased warming in the Arctic has contributed to melting permafrost, glacial retreat and sea ice loss. Higher temperatures are also causing more intense storms, droughts, and other weather extremes. Rapid environmental change in mountains, coral reefs, and the Arctic is forcing many species to relocate or become extinct. Signup and view all the answers

What are some long-term effects of climate change that will continue even if efforts to minimise future warming are successful?

Some effects of climate change that will continue for centuries include ocean heating, ocean acidification and sea level rise. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between global warming and global heating and which term is more commonly used now?

Global heating is now more commonly used to talk about climate change instead of global warming. Signup and view all the answers

What is the average temperature rise of the 2011-2020 decade compared to the pre-industrial baseline?

The 2011-2020 decade warmed to an average 1.09°C [0.95-1.20°C] compared to the pre-industrial baseline (1850-1900). Signup and view all the answers

What is the key indicator that greenhouse gases are trapping heat near the Earth's surface and preventing it from radiating into space?

The cooling of the upper atmosphere is a key indicator that greenhouse gases are trapping heat near the Earth's surface and preventing it from radiating into space. Signup and view all the answers

What are greenhouse gases and how do they contribute to climate change?

Greenhouse gases are transparent to sunlight and absorb heat radiated from the Earth's surface, slowing the rate at which heat escapes into space and trapping heat near the Earth's surface, thus contributing to climate change. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main driver of recent climate change according to the text?

The main driver of recent climate change is elevated greenhouse gases, with aerosols having a dampening effect. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of external forcings in climate change and how are they determined?

External forcings, such as changes in the concentrations of greenhouse gases or solar luminosity, contribute to climate change. To determine the human contribution to climate change, known internal climate variability and natural external forcings need to be ruled out by determining unique 'fingerprints' for all potential causes and comparing them with observed patterns of climate change. Signup and view all the answers

What are climate feedbacks?

Climate feedbacks are the modifications made to the climate system due to initial forcing, which can be increased by positive feedbacks or reduced by negative feedbacks. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of reinforcing feedbacks?

Water-vapour feedback, ice-albedo feedback, and the net effect of clouds are some examples of reinforcing feedbacks. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of climate models in predicting future climate change?

Climate models are used to estimate the degree of warming future emissions will cause when accounting for the strength of climate feedbacks, or reproduce and predict the circulation of the oceans, the annual cycle of the seasons, and the flows of carbon between the land surface and the atmosphere. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main causes of deforestation and how do they affect the local temperature?

The main causes of deforestation are permanent land-use change, logging, short term shifting cultivation, and wildfires. Deforestation affects local temperature by changing the type of vegetation, impacting albedo and heat loss, and modifying the release of chemical compounds that influence clouds and wind patterns. Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of forest degradation on climate change?

According to FAO, forest degradation reduces the carbon sequestration abilities of forests and aggravates the impacts of climate change. Signup and view all the answers

What is the evidence for greenhouse gases causing global warming?

Evidence for greenhouse gases causing global warming comes from measurements that show a warming of the lower atmosphere coupled with a cooling of the upper atmosphere, which could not be explained by solar variations alone. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four main greenhouse gases and their sources?

CO2 from burning fossil fuels and industrial processes, methane from livestock, rice cultivation, and coal mining, nitrous oxide from fertiliser decomposition, and fluorinated gases. Signup and view all the answers

What is global dimming and what causes it?

Global dimming is the reduction in the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface due to aerosols from dust, pollution, and biofuels/fossil fuels. It has been declining since 1990 due to pollution controls. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of land surface changes in climate change?

Land surface changes, mainly creating more agricultural land, account for 34% of Earth's land area. This can impact the climate by changing the Earth's surface albedo (reflectivity) and affecting the carbon cycle. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of testing the physical realism of climate models?

To examine their ability to simulate contemporary or past climates. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of past climate models underestimating climate changes?

Arctic shrinkage and precipitation increase. Signup and view all the answers

What was underestimated in older models regarding sea level rise since 1990?

Sea level rise since 1990. Signup and view all the answers

What did the 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment note regarding climate models?

Climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes. Signup and view all the answers

What factors do a subset of climate models add to simple physical climate models?

Societal factors such as population, economic growth, and energy use. Signup and view all the answers

What is produced by adding societal factors to climate models?

Scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions. Signup and view all the answers

What are the scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions used for?

Input for physical climate models and carbon cycle models to predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change. Signup and view all the answers

What are climate models potentially unable to predict?

Short-term regional climatic shifts. Signup and view all the answers

What is noted as a potential issue with climate models in the text?

Climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes. Signup and view all the answers

According to the World Health Organization, climate change is the greatest threat to global ______ in the 21st century.

health Signup and view all the answers

Limiting warming to 1.5°C will require halving emissions by ______ and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

2030 Signup and view all the answers

Electricity generated from non-carbon-emitting sources will need to replace fossil fuels for powering transportation, heating buildings, and operating ______ facilities.

industrial Signup and view all the answers

Climate change describes ______—the ongoing increase in global average temperature—and its effects on Earth's climate system. Climate change in a broader sense also includes previous long-term changes to Earth's climate.

global warming Signup and view all the answers

The current rise in global average temperature is more rapid than previous changes, and is primarily caused by humans ______. Fossil fuel use, deforestation, and some agricultural and industrial practices increase greenhouse gases, notably carbon dioxide and methane.

burning fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

Increased warming in the ______ has contributed to melting permafrost, glacial retreat and sea ice loss. Higher temperatures are also causing more intense storms, droughts, and other weather extremes.

Arctic Signup and view all the answers

Deforestation releases ______ contained in trees when they are destroyed, plus it prevents those trees from absorbing more CO2.

CO2 Signup and view all the answers

The main causes of deforestation are: permanent land-use change from forest to agricultural land producing products such as beef and ______ oil (27%), logging to produce forestry/forest products (26%), short term shifting cultivation (24%), and wildfires (23%).

palm Signup and view all the answers

The temperature signal from explosive volcanic eruptions lasts about ______ as long as when sunlight is partially blocked.

twice Signup and view all the answers

The modern observed rise in temperature and CO2 concentrations has been so rapid that even abrupt geophysical events in Earth's history do not approach current ______

rates Signup and view all the answers

The thermal energy in the global climate system has grown with only brief pauses since at least 1970, and over 90% of this extra energy has been stored in the ______

ocean Signup and view all the answers

The Northern Hemisphere and the North Pole have warmed much faster than the South Pole and Southern Hemisphere. The Northern Hemisphere not only has much more land, but also more seasonal snow cover and sea ______

ice Signup and view all the answers

Aerosols scatter and absorb solar radiation. From 1961 to 1990, a gradual reduction in the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface was observed. This phenomenon is popularly known as global ______, and is attributed to aerosols produced by dust, pollution and combustion of biofuels and fossil fuels.

dimming Signup and view all the answers

CO2 emissions primarily come from burning fossil fuels to provide energy for transport, manufacturing, heating, and electricity. Additional CO2 emissions come from deforestation and industrial processes, which include the CO2 released by the chemical reactions for making cement, steel, aluminum, and ______.

fertiliser Signup and view all the answers

Nitrous oxide emissions largely come from the microbial decomposition of ______.

fertiliser Signup and view all the answers

With societal factors added to a simple physical climate model, these models simulate how population, economic growth, and energy use affect and interact with the physical climate.

subset of climate models Signup and view all the answers

Climate models may be unable to adequately predict short-term regional climatic shifts.

additionally Signup and view all the answers

These models simulate how population, economic growth, and energy use affect the physical climate.

societal factors Signup and view all the answers

Past models have the rate of Arctic shrinkage and the rate of precipitation increase.

underestimated Signup and view all the answers

Sea level rise since 1990 was underestimated in older models, but more recent models agree well with ______.

observations Signup and view all the answers

Climate models may still be underestimating or missing ______ feedback processes.

relevant Signup and view all the answers

With this information, these models can ______ scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions.

produce Signup and view all the answers

Depending on the socioeconomic sc[enario].

factors Signup and view all the answers

The physical realism of models is ______ by examining their ability to simulate contemporary or past climates.

tested Signup and view all the answers

Climate models are used to estimate the degree of warming future emissions will cause when accounting for the strength of climate ______.

feedbacks Signup and view all the answers

The primary balancing mechanism to climate change feedback is ______ cooling.

radiative Signup and view all the answers

The reduction of snow cover and sea ice in the Arctic reduces the ______ of the Earth's surface.

reflectivity Signup and view all the answers

As Arctic temperatures are increasing at over twice the rate of the rest of the world, melting of glaciers and ice sheets in the Arctic disrupts ______ circulation

ocean Signup and view all the answers

To determine the human contribution to climate change, known internal climate variability and natural external forcings need to be ruled out. A key approach is to determine unique ______ for all potential causes

fingerprints Signup and view all the answers

Before the Industrial Revolution, naturally-occurring amounts of greenhouse gases caused the air near the surface to be about 33°C warmer than it would have been in their absence. While water vapour and clouds are the biggest contributors to the greenhouse effect, concentrations of gases such as CO2, tropospheric ozone, CFCs and nitrous oxide are ______ forcings

external Signup and view all the answers

What is the main driver of recent climate change?

Elevated levels of greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

What is the biggest contributor to the greenhouse effect?

Water vapor Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of melting glaciers and ice sheets in the Arctic?

It disrupts ocean circulation Signup and view all the answers

What is the largest uncertainty in radiative forcing?

Aerosols' indirect effects on Earth's radiation budget Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of CO2 emissions?

Burning fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the contribution of agriculture to Earth's land area?

34% Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a cause of global warming?

Increased solar activity Signup and view all the answers

What is the main effect of increasing greenhouse gases in Earth's lower atmosphere?

Expansion of deserts Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the effects of global warming on Earth's weather patterns?

Increase in droughts Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a primary balancing mechanism that reduces the effect of reinforcing feedbacks in the climate system?

Radiative cooling Signup and view all the answers

What is the largest source of feedback uncertainty in the climate system?

Net effect of clouds Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected trend of climate feedbacks in the future?

They will become increasingly positive Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following regions has warmed much faster than the other in the past few decades?

North Pole Signup and view all the answers

What is the key indicator that greenhouse gases are trapping heat near the Earth's surface?

Cooling of the upper atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason for the faster rate of warming over land regions compared to the global-average surface temperature?

Larger heat capacity of oceans Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement in terms of limiting global warming?

Limit warming to 2°C Signup and view all the answers

What is required to limit warming to 1.5°C according to the text?

Halving emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between 'global warming' and 'climate change' according to the text?

'Global warming' refers to increased surface warming while 'climate change' refers to changes to Earth's climate system Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of deforestation according to the text?

Permanent land-use change for agriculture Signup and view all the answers

How does deforestation affect local temperatures?

It causes a warming effect in tropic and temperate areas and a cooling effect in polar regions Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of volcanic activity on global temperature trends?

It has had no impact on global temperature trends Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of testing the physical realism of climate models?

To simulate contemporary or past climates Signup and view all the answers

What have past climate models underestimated?

The rate of Arctic shrinkage Signup and view all the answers

What is one criticism of climate models mentioned in the 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment?

They may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of adding societal factors to a simple physical climate model?

To simulate how population, economic growth, and energy use affect and interact with the physical climate Signup and view all the answers

What is the input for physical climate models and carbon cycle models to predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change?

Scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential limitation of climate models in predicting short-term regional climatic shifts?

They may be unable to adequately predict them Signup and view all the answers

What did older models underestimate about sea level rise since 1990?

The rate Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of examining the ability of models to simulate past climates?

To test the physical realism of models Signup and view all the answers

What is one thing that more recent models agree well with observations about?

Sea level rise since 1990 Signup and view all the answers

Is climate change solely caused by humans burning fossil fuels?

False Signup and view all the answers

Are heat waves and wildfires becoming less common due to climate change?

False Signup and view all the answers

Will the effects of climate change continue for centuries even if efforts to minimise future warming are successful?

True Signup and view all the answers

Adapting to climate change can fully eliminate climate change risks.

False Signup and view all the answers

Limiting global warming to 1.5°C will require halving emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate change only refers to human-caused changes to Earth's climate system.

False Signup and view all the answers

Deforestation is the main land use change that causes global warming

True Signup and view all the answers

The main causes of deforestation are permanent land-use change from forest to agricultural land, logging, and wildfires

True Signup and view all the answers

Volcanic activity has had a significant impact on global temperature trends in the industrial era

False Signup and view all the answers

CO2 emissions come primarily from burning fossil fuels for energy and industrial processes.

True Signup and view all the answers

Methane emissions come solely from livestock and manure.

False Signup and view all the answers

Aerosols have indirect effects on the Earth's radiation budget, including sulfate aerosols that act as cloud condensation nuclei and lead to more reflective clouds.

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The 2011-2020 decade warmed to an average of 1.09°C compared to the pre-industrial baseline?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The number of cold days and nights has increased since 1950?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The Northern Hemisphere and North Pole have warmed faster than the Southern Hemisphere and South Pole?

True Signup and view all the answers

Arctic temperatures are increasing at a rate that is higher than the rest of the world combined.

True Signup and view all the answers

Changes in the concentrations of greenhouse gases are an example of an external forcing that can contribute to climate change.

True Signup and view all the answers

Water vapor and clouds are not considered external forcings in the greenhouse effect.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate models have accurately predicted the rate of Arctic shrinkage and precipitation increase.

False Signup and view all the answers

Older models underestimated sea level rise since 1990, but newer models agree well with observations.

True Signup and view all the answers

The 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment suggests that climate models are overestimating relevant feedback processes.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate models are unable to predict short-term regional climatic shifts.

True Signup and view all the answers

Models that factor in societal factors can produce scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions.

True Signup and view all the answers

Physical climate models and carbon cycle models use scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions to predict changes in atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases.

True Signup and view all the answers

The socioeconomic scenario used can greatly alter the predicted changes in atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases.

True Signup and view all the answers

All climate models are based solely on physical factors and do not take societal factors into account.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate models have no limitations in accurately predicting future climate patterns.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate feedbacks are expected to become increasingly negative

False Signup and view all the answers

Radiative cooling is a balancing feedback mechanism

True Signup and view all the answers

Arctic amplification is caused by increased snow cover and sea ice in the region

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the average temperature rise of the 2011-2020 decade compared to the pre-industrial baseline?

1.09°C [0.95–1.20°C] Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of the Northern Hemisphere warming faster than the Southern Hemisphere?

larger heat capacity of oceans and more seasonal snow cover and sea ice Signup and view all the answers

What is the key indicator that greenhouse gases are trapping heat near the Earth's surface?

cooling of the upper atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What are the main external forcings of climate change?

Changes in the concentrations of greenhouse gases, solar luminosity, volcanic eruptions, and variations in the Earth's orbit around the Sun. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main driver of recent climate change?

Elevated greenhouse gases, with aerosols having a dampening effect. Signup and view all the answers

How have human activities impacted the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?

Human activity since the Industrial Revolution, mainly extracting and burning fossil fuels, has increased the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main reinforcing feedbacks in the climate system?

The main reinforcing feedbacks are the water-vapour feedback, the ice–albedo feedback, and the net effect of clouds. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary balancing mechanism in the climate system?

The primary balancing mechanism is radiative cooling, as Earth's surface gives off more heat to space in response to rising temperature. Signup and view all the answers

What are climate models used for?

Climate models are used to estimate the degree of warming future emissions will cause when accounting for the strength of climate feedbacks, or reproduce and predict the circulation of the oceans, the annual cycle of the seasons, and the flows of carbon between the land surface and the atmosphere. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the causes and effects of climate change?

Climate change is primarily caused by human activities such as burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and certain agricultural and industrial practices. The effects of climate change include expansion of deserts, more frequent heat waves and wildfires, melting permafrost and glacial retreat, sea ice loss, more intense storms, droughts, and other weather extremes, and impacts on biodiversity and species relocation or extinction. Signup and view all the answers

How do greenhouse gases contribute to global warming?

Greenhouse gases, notably carbon dioxide and methane, absorb some of the heat that the Earth radiates after it warms from sunlight. Larger amounts of these gases trap more heat in Earth's lower atmosphere, causing global warming. Signup and view all the answers

What are some long-term effects of climate change even if efforts to minimise future warming are successful?

Even if efforts to minimise future warming are successful, some effects of climate change will continue for centuries. These include ocean heating, ocean acidification, and sea level rise. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Paris Agreement and what are its goals?

The Paris Agreement is a global agreement signed in 2015 by countries to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C. Its goal is to strengthen the ability of countries to deal with the impacts of climate change. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the impacts of climate change mentioned in the text and how do they affect society and ecosystems?

Climate change can lead to increased flooding, extreme heat, increased food and water scarcity, more disease, and economic loss. These impacts can result in human migration and conflict. Societies and ecosystems are at risk of experiencing more severe risks without action to limit warming. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the ways to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change described in the text?

Reducing emissions requires generating electricity from low-carbon sources such as wind, solar, nuclear and other types of renewable energy, and reducing energy use. Carbon can also be removed from the atmosphere, for instance by increasing forest cover and farming with methods that capture carbon in soil. Adapting to climate change through efforts like flood control measures or drought-resistant crops partially reduces climate change risks. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of testing the physical realism of climate models?

To examine their ability to simulate contemporary or past climates. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of areas where past climate models have underestimated climate change?

Arctic shrinkage and precipitation increase. Signup and view all the answers

What is the current agreement between more recent climate models and observations regarding sea level rise?

They agree well. Signup and view all the answers

What is the limitation of climate models in predicting short-term regional climatic shifts?

They may be unable to do so adequately. Signup and view all the answers

What do subset climate models add to simple physical climate models?

Societal factors such as population, economic growth, and energy use. Signup and view all the answers

How are scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions produced using subset climate models?

By simulating how population, economic growth, and energy use affect and interact with the physical climate. Signup and view all the answers

What is one limitation of socioeconomic scenarios in predicting future greenhouse gas emissions?

They are dependent on assumptions about future population, economic growth, and energy use. Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of using socioeconomic scenarios to predict future greenhouse gas emissions?

To input the scenarios into physical climate models and carbon cycle models to predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change. Signup and view all the answers

What is noted in the 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment regarding climate models?

They may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main causes of deforestation and how do they impact global temperatures?

The main causes of deforestation are permanent land-use change from forest to agricultural land (27%), logging (26%), shifting cultivation (24%), and wildfires (23%). Deforestation affects temperatures by changing the type of vegetation in a region, which impacts albedo and heat loss by evaporation. In tropic and temperate areas, deforestation leads to significant warming, while at latitudes closer to the poles, a gain of albedo leads to a cooling effect. Signup and view all the answers

How does solar and volcanic activity impact the climate system?

Changes in incoming sunlight directly affect the climate system as the Sun is the Earth's primary energy source. Explosive volcanic eruptions can partially block sunlight for a couple of years, causing a temperature signal that lasts about twice as long. However, in the industrial era, volcanic activity has had negligible impacts on global temperature trends. Solar output and volcanic activity cannot explain the rapid warming observed in recent decades, which is further evidence for greenhouse gases causing global warming. Signup and view all the answers

How does forest degradation contribute to climate change and how does it affect the ability of forests to reduce the impact of high temperatures?

According to FAO, forest degradation reduces the carbon sequestration abilities of forests, aggravating the impacts of climate change. Forests have the potential to reduce the impact of high temperatures, but their ability to do so is reduced by forest degradation. Signup and view all the answers

What are the sources of methane emissions and how do they contribute to global anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions?

Methane emissions come from livestock, manure, rice cultivation, landfills, wastewater, and coal mining, as well as oil and gas extraction. Methane emissions account for 18% of global anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. Signup and view all the answers

What are the indirect effects of aerosols on the Earth's radiation budget and why are they the largest uncertainty in radiative forcing?

Sulfate aerosols act as cloud condensation nuclei and lead to clouds that have more and smaller cloud droplets, reflecting solar radiation more efficiently than clouds with fewer and larger droplets. They also reduce the growth of raindrops, making clouds more reflective to incoming sunlight. These indirect effects of aerosols are the largest uncertainty in radiative forcing. Signup and view all the answers

How do land surface changes impact the Earth's climate and what percentage of Earth's land area is dedicated to agriculture?

Humans change the Earth's surface mainly to create more agricultural land, which takes up 34% of Earth's land area. Land surface changes have a significant impact on the Earth's climate. Signup and view all the answers

______________ use, deforestation, and some agricultural and industrial practices increase greenhouse gases, notably carbon dioxide and methane

Fossil fuel Signup and view all the answers

Increased warming in the Arctic has contributed to melting permafrost, glacial retreat and __________ loss

sea ice Signup and view all the answers

Even if efforts to minimise future warming are successful, some effects will continue for centuries. These include ocean heating, ocean acidification and __________ rise

sea level Signup and view all the answers

Limiting warming to 1.5°C will require halving emissions by 2030 and achieving ______ emissions by 2050

net-zero Signup and view all the answers

The World Health Organization (WHO) calls climate change the greatest threat to global ______ in the 21st century

health Signup and view all the answers

Many climate change impacts are already felt at the current 1.2°C (2.2°F) level of ______

warming Signup and view all the answers

The main driver of recent climate change is elevated ______ gases, with aerosols having a dampening effect

greenhouse Signup and view all the answers

Before the Industrial Revolution, naturally-occurring amounts of greenhouse gases caused the air near the surface to be about 33 °C warmer than it would have been in their absence. While water vapour (~50%) and clouds (~25%) are the biggest contributors to the greenhouse effect, they increase as a function of temperature and are therefore ______.

feedbacks Signup and view all the answers

Human activity since the Industrial Revolution, mainly extracting and burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), has increased the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, resulting in a ______ imbalance.

radiative Signup and view all the answers

____ emissions primarily come from burning fossil fuels to provide energy for transport, manufacturing, heating, and electricity.

CO2 Signup and view all the answers

Methane emissions come from livestock, manure, rice cultivation, landfills, wastewater, and coal mining, as well as oil and gas extraction. Nitrous oxide emissions largely come from the microbial decomposition of ______.

fertiliser Signup and view all the answers

Land-surface sink processes, such as carbon fixation in the soil and photosynthesis, remove about 29% of annual global ______ emissions.

CO2 Signup and view all the answers

The main reinforcing feedbacks are the water-vapour feedback, the ice–albedo feedback, and the net effect of ______.

clouds Signup and view all the answers

Around half of human-caused CO2 emissions have been absorbed by ______ and by the oceans.

land plants Signup and view all the answers

Climate change increases droughts and heat waves that inhibit ______ growth, which makes it uncertain whether this carbon sink will continue to grow.

plant Signup and view all the answers

Deforestation releases contained in trees when they are destroyed, plus it prevents those trees from absorbing more . The main causes of deforestation are: permanent land-use change from forest to agricultural land producing products such as beef and palm oil (27%), logging to produce forestry/forest products (26%), short term shifting cultivation (24%), and wildfires (23%).

CO2 Signup and view all the answers

The type of vegetation in a region affects the local temperature. It impacts how much of the sunlight gets reflected back into space (______), and how much heat is lost by evaporation.

albedo Signup and view all the answers

Solar and volcanic activity As the ______ is the Earth's primary energy source, changes in incoming sunlight directly affect the climate system.

Sun Signup and view all the answers

Observed temperature rise: The 2011-2020 decade warmed to an average 1.09°C [0.95-1.20°C] compared to the pre-industrial baseline (1850-1900). Surface temperatures are rising by about ______ per decade

0.2°C Signup and view all the answers

Flora and fauna are also behaving in a manner consistent with warming; for instance, plants are flowering earlier in ______

spring Signup and view all the answers

The Northern Hemisphere not only has much more land, but also more seasonal snow cover and sea ice. The Northern Hemisphere and the North Pole have warmed much faster than the South Pole and Southern Hemisphere. The thermal energy in the global climate system has grown with only brief pauses since at least 1970, and over 90% of this extra energy has been stored in the ______

ocean Signup and view all the answers

This information can produce scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions. This is then ______ as input for physical climate models and carbon cycle models to predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change.

used Signup and view all the answers

Past models have underestimated the rate of Arctic_________ and underestimated the rate of precipitation increase.

shrinkage Signup and view all the answers

Climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant ________ processes.

feedback Signup and view all the answers

Climate models may be unable to adequately predict short-term regional ________ shifts.

climatic Signup and view all the answers

A subset of climate add societal factors to a simple physical climate model. These simulate how population, economic growth, and energy use affect – and interact with – the physical climate.

models Signup and view all the answers

Sea level rise since 1990 was underestimated in older models, but more recent models agree well with ________.

observations Signup and view all the answers

The physical realism of models is tested by examining their ability to simulate contemporary or past ________.

climates Signup and view all the answers

Depending on the socioeconomic ________,

scenario Signup and view all the answers

The 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment notes that 'climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant ________ processes'

feedback Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of global warming according to the text?

Fossil fuel use Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the impacts of climate change on Earth's ecosystems?

Melting permafrost Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the effects of global warming on extreme weather events?

More frequent droughts Signup and view all the answers

What is the largest contributor to global anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions in 2019?

CO2 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of CO2 emissions?

Burning fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

What is the largest uncertainty in radiative forcing?

Indirect effects of aerosols Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary reinforcing feedbacks in the climate system?

Water-vapour feedback, ice-albedo feedback, and net effect of clouds Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary balancing mechanism in the climate system?

Radiative cooling Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for uncertainty in climate models projecting magnitudes of warming?

Uncertainty over feedbacks Signup and view all the answers

What is the main driver of recent climate change?

Increased concentrations of greenhouse gases Signup and view all the answers

According to the World Health Organization, what is the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century?

Climate change Signup and view all the answers

What are the two biggest contributors to the greenhouse effect?

Water vapour and clouds Signup and view all the answers

What is the fingerprint of solar forcing on climate change?

Warming in the entire atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is required to limit warming to 1.5°C according to the Paris Agreement?

Achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between global warming and climate change?

Global warming refers only to increased surface warming, while climate change describes the totality of changes to Earth's climate system. Signup and view all the answers

By how much has the 2011-2020 decade warmed compared to the pre-industrial baseline?

1.09°C [0.95-1.20°C] Signup and view all the answers

Which hemisphere has warmed much faster than the other since the pre-industrial period?

Northern Hemisphere and North Pole Signup and view all the answers

What is the key indicator that greenhouse gases are trapping heat near the Earth's surface and preventing it from radiating into space?

Cooling of the upper atmosphere Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of deforestation globally?

Permanent land-use change from forest to agricultural land Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of deforestation on local temperature?

It causes a warming effect Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of volcanic activity on global temperature trends?

It has had a negligible impact on global temperature trends Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common issue with past climate models?

Underestimation of Arctic shrinkage Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of adding societal factors to a simple physical climate model?

To predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change Signup and view all the answers

What is the current state of agreement between more recent climate models and observations of sea level rise?

Recent models accurately predict sea level rise Signup and view all the answers

What is the main limitation of climate models in predicting short-term regional climatic shifts?

They are unable to adequately predict short-term regional climatic shifts Signup and view all the answers

What is the 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment's view on climate models?

Climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of simulating contemporary or past climates in testing the physical realism of models?

To test the physical realism of models Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential impact of climate models underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes?

Climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of carbon cycle models in predicting future atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases?

To predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change Signup and view all the answers

What is one potential limitation of climate models in predicting future greenhouse gas emissions?

They are unable to accurately predict societal factors Signup and view all the answers

Adapting to climate change can fully eliminate climate change risks.

False Signup and view all the answers

Limiting warming to 1.5°C requires achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

True Signup and view all the answers

Poorer countries are responsible for a large share of global emissions.

False Signup and view all the answers

Deforestation is the main land use change that causes global warming.

True Signup and view all the answers

Tropic and temperate areas experience a cooling effect due to deforestation.

False Signup and view all the answers

Volcanic activity has had a significant impact on global temperature trends during the industrial era.

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Local black carbon deposits on snow and ice have no contribution to Arctic warming?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Water vapor and clouds are the biggest contributors to the greenhouse effect because they are external forcings?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The main driver of recent climate change is elevated greenhouse gases, with aerosols having a dampening effect?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Climate change is caused solely by natural factors and not human activity?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The current rate of global temperature rise is faster than previous changes in Earth's climate history?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Even if efforts are successful in limiting future warming, the effects of climate change will continue for centuries?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The 2011-2020 decade warmed to an average of 1.09°C above the pre-industrial baseline?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The warming of the upper atmosphere is a key indicator that greenhouse gases are trapping heat near the Earth's surface?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The Northern Hemisphere and North Pole have warmed at the same rate as the Southern Hemisphere and South Pole?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Aerosols have a direct warming effect on the Earth's climate?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Land-use changes, such as deforestation, have reduced the Earth's capacity to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Methane emissions from livestock and manure contribute more to global greenhouse gas emissions than emissions from coal mining and oil and gas extraction?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Radiative cooling is a positive feedback mechanism that reduces the effect of initial forcing on the climate system?

False Signup and view all the answers

True or false: The reduction of snow cover and sea ice in the Arctic contributes to the amplification of Arctic temperature changes?

True Signup and view all the answers

True or false: Elevated CO2 and an extended growing season have stimulated plant growth but the effects of climate change on droughts and heat waves make it uncertain whether this carbon sink will continue to grow?

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate models have accurately predicted all short-term regional climatic shifts.

False Signup and view all the answers

Societal factors are not included in some climate models.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate models have always accurately predicted sea level rise since 1990.

False Signup and view all the answers

Models that add societal factors can produce scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions.

True Signup and view all the answers

Climate models have accurately predicted the rate of Arctic shrinkage.

False Signup and view all the answers

Climate models may still be missing relevant feedback processes.

True Signup and view all the answers

Past climate models have overestimated the rate of precipitation increase.

False Signup and view all the answers

Carbon cycle models are not used in predicting how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change.

False Signup and view all the answers

Short-term regional climatic shifts are the only thing that climate models may be unable to predict adequately.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the average temperature rise during the 2011-2020 decade compared to the pre-industrial baseline?

1.09°C [0.95–1.20°C] Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the Northern Hemisphere and North Pole warming faster than the Southern Hemisphere and South Pole?

larger heat capacity of oceans and more seasonal snow cover and sea ice Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the extra thermal energy in the global climate system since 1970 has been stored in the ocean?

over 90% Signup and view all the answers

What is the target temperature increase agreed upon by nations in the 2015 Paris Agreement?

The target temperature increase agreed upon by nations in the 2015 Paris Agreement is to keep warming 'well under 2°C'. Signup and view all the answers

What is required to limit warming to 1.5°C?

To limit warming to 1.5°C, emissions need to be halved by 2030 and net-zero emissions need to be achieved by 2050. Signup and view all the answers

What is the World Health Organization's opinion on climate change?

The World Health Organization (WHO) calls climate change the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the long-term changes to Earth's climate that are included in the broader sense of climate change?

Answer: Previous long-term changes to Earth's climate are included in the broader sense of climate change. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the effects of global warming on Earth's climate system?

Answer: Effects of global warming on Earth's climate system include expanding deserts, more common heat waves and wildfires, melting permafrost, glacial retreat, sea ice loss, more intense storms, droughts, and other weather extremes. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the continued effects of future warming even if efforts to minimize it are successful?

Answer: Some of the continued effects of future warming, even if efforts to minimize it are successful, include ocean heating, ocean acidification, and sea level rise. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of external forcings that contribute to climate change, and how are they differentiated from internal climate variability?

Examples of external forcings include changes in greenhouse gas concentrations, solar luminosity, volcanic eruptions, and variations in the Earth's orbit around the Sun. To differentiate external forcings from internal climate variability, unique 'fingerprints' are determined for all potential causes and compared with observed patterns of climate change. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main impact of melting glaciers and ice sheets on ocean circulation, and how does this further affect the climate?

Melting of glaciers and ice sheets in the Arctic disrupts ocean circulation, including a weakened Gulf Stream, further changing the climate. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary driver of recent climate change, and what effect do aerosols have on this driver?

The main driver of recent climate change is elevated greenhouse gases, with aerosols having a dampening effect. Signup and view all the answers

What is global dimming and what causes it?

Global dimming is the phenomenon where there is a gradual reduction in the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface. It is caused by aerosols produced by dust, pollution and combustion of biofuels and fossil fuels. Signup and view all the answers

What are the indirect effects of aerosols on the Earth's radiation budget?

Sulfate aerosols act as cloud condensation nuclei and lead to clouds that have more and smaller cloud droplets. These clouds reflect solar radiation more efficiently than clouds with fewer and larger droplets. They also reduce the growth of raindrops, which makes clouds more reflective to incoming sunlight. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main sources of methane emissions and what are the main sources of nitrous oxide emissions?

Methane emissions come from livestock, manure, rice cultivation, landfills, wastewater, and coal mining, as well as oil and gas extraction. Nitrous oxide emissions largely come from the microbial decomposition of fertiliser. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main causes of deforestation and how do they contribute to global warming?

The main causes of deforestation are permanent land-use change from forest to agricultural land, logging to produce forestry/forest products, short term shifting cultivation, and wildfires. Deforestation contributes to global warming by releasing CO2 contained in trees and preventing trees from absorbing more CO2. It also affects local temperature and wind patterns. Signup and view all the answers

How does deforestation affect the temperature of different regions and what is the estimated global effect?

Deforestation affects the temperature of different regions by changing the type of vegetation, which affects local temperature, albedo, and heat loss by evaporation. In tropic and temperate areas, deforestation leads to significant warming, while at latitudes closer to the poles, it leads to a cooling effect. Globally, these effects are estimated to have led to a slight cooling, dominated by an increase in surface albedo. Signup and view all the answers

What is the evidence that greenhouse gases are causing global warming and how do physical climate models support this?

Evidence that greenhouse gases are causing global warming comes from measurements that show a warming of the lower atmosphere, coupled with a cooling of the upper atmosphere. If solar variations were responsible for the observed warming, the troposphere and stratosphere would both warm. Physical climate models support this by being unable to reproduce the rapid warming observed in recent decades when taking into account only variations in solar output and volcanic activity. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main reinforcing feedbacks in the climate system and how do they impact Earth's temperature?

The main reinforcing feedbacks are the water-vapour feedback, the ice–albedo feedback, and the net effect of clouds. Water vapour, as a potent greenhouse gas, holds heat in the atmosphere. If cloud cover increases, more sunlight will be reflected back into space, cooling the planet. If clouds become higher and thinner, they act as an insulator, reflecting heat from below back downwards and warming the planet. The effect of clouds is the largest source of feedback uncertainty. Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary balancing mechanisms in the climate system and how do they impact Earth's temperature?

The primary balancing mechanism is radiative cooling, as Earth's surface gives off more heat to space in response to rising temperature. In addition to temperature feedbacks, there are feedbacks in the carbon cycle, such as the fertilizing effect of CO2 on plant growth. Signup and view all the answers

Why is uncertainty over feedbacks a major reason why different climate models project different magnitudes of warming for a given amount of emissions?

Uncertainty over feedbacks is the major reason why different climate models project different magnitudes of warming for a given amount of emissions, as feedbacks can either amplify or mitigate the initial forcing from greenhouse gas emissions. The magnitude of amplification or mitigation is uncertain and can vary depending on the specific feedback mechanisms included in the model. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the limitations of climate models?

Climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes and may be unable to adequately predict short-term regional climatic shifts. Signup and view all the answers

What factors do subset climate models add to a simple physical climate model?

Subset climate models add societal factors such as population, economic growth, and energy use. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of adding societal factors to climate models?

To produce scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions which are then used as input for physical climate models and carbon cycle models to predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change. Signup and view all the answers

Why was sea level rise underestimated in older models?

Sea level rise since 1990 was underestimated in older models because they did not take into account the melting of ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of carbon cycle models?

Carbon cycle models predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might change. Signup and view all the answers

What is the 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment?

The 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment is a report on the current and future impacts of climate change on the United States. Signup and view all the answers

What feedback has been received from the National Climate Assessment regarding climate models?

The National Climate Assessment notes that climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant feedback processes. Signup and view all the answers

What are the factors that climate models cannot adequately predict?

Climate models may be unable to adequately predict short-term regional climatic shifts. Signup and view all the answers

How is the physical realism of climate models tested?

The physical realism of models is tested by examining their ability to simulate contemporary or past climates. Signup and view all the answers

The average surface temperature over land regions has increased almost twice as fast as the ______-average surface temperature

global Signup and view all the answers

The Northern Hemisphere and the North Pole have warmed much faster than the ______ Pole and Southern Hemisphere

South Signup and view all the answers

Over 90% of the extra energy in the global climate system has been stored in the ______

ocean Signup and view all the answers

______ gases absorb some of the heat that the Earth radiates after it warms from sunlight

Greenhouse Signup and view all the answers

Due to climate change, deserts are expanding, while heat waves and wildfires are becoming more ______

common Signup and view all the answers

Even if efforts to minimise future warming are successful, some effects will continue for ______

centuries Signup and view all the answers

Feedbacks in the carbon cycle are caused by the fertilizing effect of CO2 on ______ growth

plant Signup and view all the answers

The main balancing mechanism for climate change is ______ cooling

radiative Signup and view all the answers

Arctic amplification is also melting permafrost, which releases ______ and CO2 into the atmosphere

methane Signup and view all the answers

Arctic temperatures are increasing at over twice the rate of the rest of the world, largely due to the ______ effect caused by melting ice and snow

albedo Signup and view all the answers

Greenhouse gases are transparent to sunlight, and thus allow it to pass through the atmosphere to heat the Earth's surface. The Earth radiates it as heat, and greenhouse gases absorb a portion of it. This absorption slows the rate at which heat escapes into space, trapping heat near the Earth's surface and ______ it over time.

warming Signup and view all the answers

Human activity since the Industrial Revolution, mainly extracting and burning ______, has increased the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, resulting in a radiative imbalance.

fossil fuels Signup and view all the answers

______ emissions come from burning fossil fuels to provide energy for transport, manufacturing, heating, and electricity

CO2 Signup and view all the answers

Land-surface sink processes, such as carbon fixation in the soil and photosynthesis, remove about ______% of annual global CO2 emissions

29 Signup and view all the answers

From 1961 to 1990, a gradual reduction in the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface was observed. This phenomenon is popularly known as global ______, and is attributed to aerosols produced by dust, pollution, and combustion of biofuels and fossil fuels

dimming Signup and view all the answers

Deforestation releases ______ contained in trees when they are destroyed, plus it prevents those trees from absorbing more CO2.

CO2 Signup and view all the answers

The main causes of deforestation are: permanent land-use change from forest to agricultural land producing products such as ______ and palm oil (27%), logging to produce forestry/forest products (26%), short term shifting cultivation (24%), and wildfires (23%).

beef Signup and view all the answers

The type of vegetation in a region affects the local ______. It impacts how much of the sunlight gets reflected back into space (albedo), and how much heat is lost by evaporation.

temperature Signup and view all the answers

According to the World Health Organization, climate change is considered the greatest threat to global ______ in the 21st century.

health Signup and view all the answers

Limiting warming to 1.5°C will require halving emissions by ______ and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

2030 Signup and view all the answers

To reduce emissions, electricity generated from ______-carbon sources needs to replace fossil fuels for powering transportation, heating buildings, and operating industrial facilities.

low Signup and view all the answers

The 2017 United States-published National Climate Assessment notes that 'climate models may still be underestimating or missing relevant ______ processes'

feedback Signup and view all the answers

A subset of climate models add societal factors to a simple physical climate model. These models simulate how population, economic growth, and energy use affect – and interact with – the physical ______

climate Signup and view all the answers

These models can produce scenarios of future greenhouse gas emissions. This is then used as input for physical climate models and carbon cycle models to predict how atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases might ______

change Signup and view all the answers

Past models have underestimated the rate of Arctic shrinkage and underestimated the rate of precipitation ______

increase Signup and view all the answers

Depending on the socioeconomic ______

scenario Signup and view all the answers

Additionally, climate models may be unable to adequately predict short-term regional climatic ______

shifts Signup and view all the answers

Sea level rise since 1990 was underestimated in older models, but more recent models agree well with ______

observations Signup and view all the answers

A subset of climate models add societal factors to a simple physical climate model. These models simulate how population, economic growth, and energy use affect – and interact with – the ______ climate

physical Signup and view all the answers

The physical realism of models is tested by examining their ability to simulate contemporary or past ______

climates Signup and view all the answers

Climate Change Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is climate change?

What is the difference between weather and climate?

What is global warming?

What do scientists use to collect information about Earth's climate?

What is the role of greenhouse gases in keeping Earth warm?

What is the timeframe for climate?

What do scientists observe about Earth's temperature?

How long have NASA scientists been studying Earth's climate?

What is the timeframe for weather?

What happens when some of the gases in Earth’s atmosphere trap heat from the Sun?

What is the main cause of the Earth's warming?

What happens to the carbon that was in the ground when we burn fossil fuels?

What is the impact of climate change on sea levels?

What is the process called when the ocean becomes more acidic?

How have the average air temperatures near Earth's surface changed in the last century?

What are fossil fuels?

What is the impact of climate change on the health of Earth's plants and animals?

What happens to the water in the oceans as it gets warmer?

What is the source of carbon in fossil fuels?

What is the impact of ocean acidification on plants and animals?

Climate describes the typical weather conditions in an entire region for a very long time – 30 years or more.

Climate change describes a change in the typical weather for a region over a short period of time.

Scientists have been studying Earth's climate for more than 40 years.

Global warming is the term used to describe the rise in Earth's average surface temperature.

Greenhouse gases keep Earth warm enough to live on.

Blizzards can turn into floods after just a few warm spring days.

The warming of Earth's climate is a natural process that has always occurred.

Many of the warmest years on record have happened in the past 20 years.

Climate change only affects certain regions of the world.

NASA scientists use satellites and instruments to collect information about Earth's climate.

Human activities such as burning fossil fuels create extra greenhouse gases that trap the Sun's heat, leading to a warmer Earth.

Carbon is not present in all living things on Earth.

Fossil fuels such as oil and coal are formed from underground remains of plants and animals.

When we burn fossil fuels, the carbon in them goes into the air as a gas called oxygen.

Plants and trees can absorb all of the extra carbon dioxide in the atmosphere caused by burning fossil fuels.

Earth's climate has never warmed up or cooled down in the past.

Over the last century, the average air temperatures near Earth's surface have gone up by about 2 degrees Fahrenheit.

As the planet warms, sea levels are also rising due to melting ice and water expansion.

Ocean acidification is not harmful to plants and animals.

The warming of the planet is happening much faster than it has over human history.

Which of the following best describes nature-based solutions?

What is a common problem that nature-based solutions can address?

Which type of infrastructure is traditionally used to tackle coastal flooding?

What is the estimated contribution of nature-based solutions to mitigating climate change until 2030?

What is an example of a nature-based solution that can act as a carbon sink?

What is climate-smart agriculture?

What is the benefit of planting mangroves to address coastal flooding?

What benefits do wetlands provide?

What is the goal of the project in Zhejiang Qiandao Lake and Xin’an River Basin, China?

What is the basic metric used to measure the results of a restoration or reforestation project?

Why is measuring the impact on biodiversity more complicated than measuring the impact on climate?

What is the importance of an evidence-based approach to managing nature-based solutions?

What are some of the interventions being implemented in the Zhejiang Qiandao Lake and Xin’an River Basin project?

What is the critical aspect of measuring the benefits of nature-based solutions?

According to the World Bank, why is biodiversity and ecosystem services loss a development issue?

What is the World Bank doing to improve the assessment of biodiversity benefits in development portfolios?

Why are the stakes high in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss?

What is a common element in all pathways to achieving the Paris Agreement?

What do nature-based solutions offer in addressing the climate and biodiversity crises?

What is the role of forests in achieving the Paris Agreement?

What are the risks of global biodiversity and ecosystem loss?

What is the significance of addressing the climate and biodiversity crises in a synergetic and cost-effective manner?

What do all pathways to achieving the Paris Agreement include?

What is one way to benefit from nature-based solutions mentioned in the text?

What is the role of nature-based solutions in climate change adaptation and building resilience?

What percentage of mitigation needed until 2030 can nature-based solutions provide according to estimates?

What is the focus of many World Bank projects incorporating nature-based solutions?

What is an example of a nature-based solution project in Burundi mentioned in the text?

What is the focus of the nature-based solution project in Colombo, Sri Lanka mentioned in the text?

What is the World Bank committed to addressing according to the text?

Nature-based solutions only address climate change

Mangroves can reduce the impact of coastal erosion and support biodiversity

Climate-smart agriculture can help retain carbon in fields

Restoring native forests cannot act as a carbon sink

Nature-based solutions can provide 37% of the mitigation needed to achieve the Paris Agreement targets

Planting trees can help fight climate change by soaking up carbon