Climate Change

Definition

Climate change refers to significant and lasting changes in the Earth's climate, particularly due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. This phenomenon has widespread effects on weather patterns, sea levels, and biodiversity, impacting ecosystems and the services they provide to humanity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Climate change is primarily driven by human activities, notably the burning of fossil fuels which increases greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere.
2. Rising global temperatures due to climate change lead to extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and floods, significantly affecting ecosystems.
3. Melting ice caps and glaciers contribute to rising sea levels, which pose a threat to coastal ecosystems and human settlements.
4. Biodiversity loss is a direct consequence of climate change, as many species struggle to adapt to rapidly changing habitats and conditions.
5. Addressing climate change requires global cooperation and initiatives aimed at reducing carbon footprints through renewable energy sources and conservation efforts.

Review Questions

• How do greenhouse gases contribute to climate change and what are their effects on ecosystems?
  • Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to increased global temperatures. This warming affects ecosystems by altering weather patterns, which can result in more frequent extreme weather events. These changes threaten various species' habitats and can disrupt the balance of ecosystem services that are vital for human survival.
• Evaluate the impact of rising sea levels on coastal ecosystems and communities in the context of climate change.
  • Rising sea levels caused by climate change threaten coastal ecosystems such as wetlands and coral reefs, which serve as vital habitats for many marine species. This encroachment can lead to habitat loss and increased salinity in estuaries. Coastal communities also face greater risks from flooding and erosion, requiring adaptation strategies to protect both natural environments and human infrastructure.
• Assess the long-term implications of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem services, considering the need for sustainability.
  • The long-term implications of climate change on biodiversity are profound, as many species may face extinction if they cannot adapt quickly enough. The loss of biodiversity can severely disrupt ecosystem services like pollination, water purification, and carbon sequestration, which are essential for human well-being. To mitigate these impacts, a focus on sustainability through conservation efforts and reduced carbon emissions is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems that support life.

Related terms

Greenhouse Gases: Gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide that trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to global warming.

Ecosystem Services:

The benefits that humans receive from natural ecosystems, including clean air and water, pollination of crops, and climate regulation.

Sustainability:

The ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often focusing on environmental conservation and responsible resource management.