What is Climate Change?

Climate change refers to significant changes in global temperatures and weather patterns over time. While climate change is a natural phenomenon, scientific evidence shows that human activities have been the primary driver of rapid climate change since the 20th century.

Causes of Climate Change:

1. Greenhouse Gases: Certain gases in the atmosphere trap heat from the sun, creating a “greenhouse effect.” The main greenhouse gases are:
   • Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Released by burning fossil fuels (like coal, oil, and gas), deforestation, and some industrial processes.
   • Methane (CH4): Emitted during the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as from livestock and other agricultural practices.
   • Nitrous Oxide (N2O): Released from agricultural and industrial activities, as well as during the combustion of fossil fuels and solid waste.
   • Fluorinated Gases: Synthetic gases used in various industrial applications.
2. Deforestation: Trees absorb CO2, so when forests are cut down, this CO2 is released into the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.
3. Industrial Activities: Factories and industrial processes release large amounts of CO2 and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
4. Agriculture: Farming activities, such as livestock production and rice cultivation, release methane and nitrous oxide.

Basic Concepts:

• Global Warming: The increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to rising levels of greenhouse gases.
• Climate vs. Weather: Weather refers to short-term changes in the atmosphere, like rain or sunshine. Climate is the average weather in a place over a long period (30 years or more).
• Climate System: Includes the atmosphere, oceans, ice caps, and biosphere, all interacting to determine the climate.