Climate change

Definition

Climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other elements of the Earth's climate system, primarily driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. This phenomenon has wide-reaching impacts on natural systems, weather patterns, and ecosystems around the globe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Earth's average temperature has increased by approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius since the late 19th century, largely due to human activities.
2. Climate change can lead to more frequent and severe weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and floods, impacting human populations and ecosystems.
3. Ocean acidification is a significant consequence of climate change, resulting from increased carbon dioxide absorption by oceans, which threatens marine life.
4. Glacial and polar ice melting contributes to rising sea levels, posing a risk to coastal communities worldwide.
5. Human activities account for over 70% of greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the need for sustainable practices to mitigate climate change.

Review Questions

• How do human activities contribute to climate change, and what are some of the primary greenhouse gases involved?
  • Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels for energy, transportation, and industrial processes, significantly contribute to climate change by releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The main greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). These gases trap heat and result in an enhanced greenhouse effect, leading to global warming and associated changes in weather patterns.
• Discuss the impact of climate change on biodiversity and species distribution across different ecosystems.
  • Climate change poses a serious threat to biodiversity as it alters habitats and ecological niches that species rely on. Many species may struggle to adapt or migrate quickly enough to keep pace with changing temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns. This can lead to disruptions in food webs, increased extinction rates, and changes in species distribution as organisms seek suitable environments to survive.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of various strategies for mitigating climate change impacts on human-environment interactions.
  • Mitigating climate change requires a multi-faceted approach that includes transitioning to renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable land use practices. Strategies like reforestation can help absorb CO2 from the atmosphere while protecting biodiversity. However, the effectiveness of these strategies varies based on local contexts and requires strong political will, community engagement, and international cooperation. A holistic approach that considers social equity and economic factors is essential for meaningful progress in addressing climate change.

Related terms

Greenhouse Gases: Gases such as carbon dioxide and methane that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and driving global warming.

Global Warming: The observed increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to rising levels of greenhouse gases, often used interchangeably with climate change.

Ecosystem Resilience: The ability of an ecosystem to withstand disturbances and maintain its essential functions and processes in the face of climate change.