Climate change refers to long-term changes in the typical weather patterns in a specific region.
"Climate" is different from "weather." Weather refers to short-term conditions, like what’s happening today or in the next few days. For example, a rainstorm in the Sahara Desert would be considered “weather,” but the climate in that area is dry, as rain doesn’t occur often there.
Climate change means that, over time, weather patterns in a region will shift. For example, it might become generally hotter than before.
While different types of weather events will still occur, like rain or storms, the overall trend will be different. Since the 18th century, the Earth’s average temperature has risen by about 1.15 to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Why is this happening?
The main cause of climate change is the increase in greenhouse gases (GHGs) like Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Methane.
These gases are released into the atmosphere primarily through human activities like burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas).
Once in the atmosphere, these gases trap heat from the Sun, preventing it from escaping back into space. This leads to a gradual rise in Earth’s average temperature.
The concentration of CO2 in the air has reached more than 410 parts per million by volume (ppm), compared to about 280ppm at the start of the Industrial Revolution.
Every year, about 37 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide are released into the atmosphere, significantly affecting the planet’s temperature.
What are the consequences?
As the Earth warms, we are experiencing more extreme and frequent weather events, such as longer droughts, more wildfires, stronger storms, and heavier flooding.
These events cause greater damage to communities and can result in loss of life. Climate change also affects food production worldwide, leading to issues like reduced crop yields and more pest invasions.
What can we do?
The most effective solution is to stop releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This means finding alternative ways to do everyday tasks like driving, using electricity, and buying food.
Here are some ways you can help:
- drive and fly less
- eat less meat
- use Electric Vehicles (EVs)
- replace gas boilers with electric heating
Find out more about reducing your carbon footprint
Adapting to climate change
In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, it’s also important to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
This includes making adjustments to our communities, agriculture, and infrastructure to protect against extreme weather events and rising temperatures.
For example, cities can build better flood defences, farmers can use climate-resilient crops, and countries can invest in water conservation strategies to prepare for future changes.
Adaptation efforts help reduce the negative effects of climate change and ensure that we are better equipped to handle the challenges ahead.