Climate change

Definition

Climate change refers to significant alterations in global temperatures and weather patterns over time, primarily driven by human activities such as fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, and industrial processes. This phenomenon has far-reaching implications on various aspects of life, including environmental policy, energy use, biodiversity, and global security.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Earth's average temperature has increased by about 1.2 degrees Celsius since the late 19th century due to human-induced greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Climate change poses serious threats to biodiversity, leading to habitat loss and increased extinction rates for numerous species worldwide.
3. Extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts are becoming more frequent and severe as a result of climate change.
4. Global efforts like the Paris Agreement aim to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
5. Climate change can exacerbate resource scarcity, leading to conflicts over water, food, and energy resources in vulnerable regions.

Review Questions

• How does climate change impact environmental policies at the national and international levels?
  • Climate change significantly influences environmental policies by pushing governments to implement regulations that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy sources. National policies may include stricter emissions standards, while international agreements like the Paris Accord encourage collaborative efforts among countries to address the global nature of climate change. As awareness of its impacts grows, climate change is increasingly becoming a central theme in discussions surrounding sustainable development and conservation strategies.
• Discuss how the global energy landscape is shifting in response to climate change challenges.
  • The global energy landscape is undergoing a major transformation due to the challenges posed by climate change. There's a strong push towards transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Governments and corporations are investing heavily in clean technology to reduce carbon footprints and mitigate climate impacts. This shift not only aims to lower greenhouse gas emissions but also seeks to create a more sustainable energy system that can withstand the effects of climate change.
• Evaluate the relationship between climate change and environmental security, highlighting its potential for conflict.
  • The relationship between climate change and environmental security is complex and multifaceted. Climate change can lead to resource scarcity—particularly water and arable land—which may heighten tensions between communities and nations. As people are displaced due to rising sea levels or extreme weather events, competition for limited resources can escalate into conflicts. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for developing effective policies aimed at preventing conflict and promoting stability in regions particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

Related terms

Greenhouse Gases: Gases like carbon dioxide and methane that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change.

Sustainable Development:

Development that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often focused on balancing economic growth with environmental protection.

Climate Adaptation: Adjustments made in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli, aimed at minimizing harm or exploiting beneficial opportunities.