Climate Change: A

Glossary for Young

People
Welcome to an introduction to climate change! Do you want to learn
more about our planet? Join us in this journey to discover the beauty of
Earth and the challenges that we face.

by Bola Akram
Climate Change Definition
What is Climate Change?
Climate change refers to the long-
term changes in the earth's
climate, including temperature,
precipitation, and other indicators.
It is primarily caused by
greenhouse gas emissions from
human activities.
What is The Global
Climate?
The global climate refers to the
average weather patterns across
the world over time, which shapes
the ecosystems and the living
beings that inhabit it.
Why Is It Important to
Act?
Climate change poses significant
risks to our environment, our
health, and our societies. However,
we have the power to take action
and reduce its impacts.
Greenhouse Gases
What are Greenhouse Gases?
Greenhouse gases are gases that trap heat in the
earth's atmosphere, creating the greenhouse
effect that warms the planet. The main
greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane,
nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases.
What are their impacts?
Greenhouse gases contribute to the warming of
the planet, leading to melting ice caps, rising sea
levels, and more frequent extreme weather
events, among other effects.
Where do they come from?
Greenhouse gases are emitted from various
sources, such as the burning of fossil fuels,
deforestation, agriculture, and industrial
processes, among others.
What can I do?
Reducing your carbon footprint and supporting
policies that promote clean energy, sustainable
transport, and reforestation can help reduce
greenhouse gas emissions.
Carbon Footprint
How Can I Calculate My Carbon
Footprint?

You can use online calculators to estimate your

carbon footprint, based on your daily activities,
travel habits, and other lifestyle choices.

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What is a Carbon Footprint? Why is it Important?

A carbon footprint is the total amount of
greenhouse gases that are emitted due to one's
activities, such as energy use, transportation, and
food choices.
Knowing your carbon footprint can help you
identify areas where you can reduce emissions
and become more sustainable. It can also help
policymakers and businesses to take action to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Renewable Energy
What is Renewable
Energy?
Renewable energy refers to energy
that comes from sources that are
naturally replenished, such as solar,
wind, hydro, and geothermal.
Why is it Important?
Renewable energy is a crucial
component in the transition to a
low-carbon economy and reducing
greenhouse gas emissions. It can
also provide energy security, create
jobs, and offer economic benefits.
What are the Benefits?
Renewable energy sources have
low or no emissions, reduce
dependence on fossil fuels, and
can reduce energy costs, among
other benefits.
Effects of Climate Change
1 Rising Sea Levels

As the planet warms, glaciers and ice caps melt, and water
expands as it warms, causing sea levels to rise.

2 Extreme Weather Events

Climate change can lead to more frequent and intense weather

events, such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts.

3 Loss of Biodiversity

As habitats change and species struggle to adapt, biodiversity is

reduced, leading to the loss of valuable ecosystems and natural
resources.

4 Human Health Impacts

Rising temperatures can lead to more heatwaves, which can cause

dehydration, heat stroke, and other health problems. Climate
change can also lead to the spread of diseases, such as malaria and
dengue fever.
Ways to Lessen the Effects
1 Individual Actions

Reducing your carbon footprint, adopting a more sustainable lifestyle, and supporting eco-
friendly businesses can all contribute to reducing the effects of climate change.

2 Community and Policy Actions

Working together with your community to promote green initiatives and advocating for
policies that support clean energy and sustainable practices can also make a difference.

3 Innovation and Technology

Investing in research and development of innovative technologies, such as carbon capture and
storage, can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Conclusion
We Can Make a Difference
Climate change is a global issue that requires
action from everyone. However, with collective
action, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions,
protect our planet, and secure a sustainable
future.
The Time to Act is Now
Climate change is happening, and it's happening
fast. The sooner we act, the more we can do to
reduce its impacts and protect ourselves and
future generations.