Climate Change Summary

Climate change is a global environmental phenomenon characterized by long-term shifts in

temperature patterns, precipitation levels, sea levels, and weather events across the planet.
Human activities, notably the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial processes, and
agricultural practices, have significantly contributed to the increase in greenhouse gases
such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) in the Earth's
atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, leading to the greenhouse effect and
subsequent global warming.

The consequences of climate change are far-reaching and impact various aspects of
ecosystems, economies, and societies worldwide. Rising global temperatures have resulted
in melting glaciers and ice caps, leading to sea-level rise and threatening coastal
communities with increased flooding and erosion. Changes in precipitation patterns have
led to more frequent and intense droughts, heatwaves, wildfires, and storms, affecting
agriculture, water resources, and human settlements.

The warming climate also disrupts ecosystems, causing shifts in plant and animal habitats,
migration patterns, and species extinction risks. Coral reefs, forests, and marine ecosystems
face bleaching, degradation, and loss due to changing ocean temperatures, acidification,
and habitat destruction. These environmental changes have profound implications for
biodiversity, food security, and ecosystem services essential for human well-being.

In addition to environmental impacts, climate change poses significant socio-economic

challenges, exacerbating inequalities and vulnerabilities, especially in developing and
vulnerable communities. Disruptions in agriculture and water availability can lead to food
insecurity, displacement, conflicts over resources, and increased health risks from heat-
related illnesses, vector-borne diseases, and air pollution.

Addressing climate change requires concerted global efforts involving governments,

businesses, communities, and individuals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to
renewable energy sources, adopt sustainable land-use practices, enhance resilience to
climate impacts, and promote climate justice and equity. International agreements such as
the Paris Agreement aim to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-
industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius,
recognizing the urgent need for collective action to mitigate climate risks and build a
sustainable future for generations to come.