1. Key Definitions
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Climate Change | Long-term changes in the Earth’s climate patterns over decades or centuries |
| Global Warming | A rise in Earth’s average temperature — a major aspect of climate change |
☀️ 2. Causes of Global Warming
The main cause is the increase in greenhouse gases due to human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
🔥 Major Greenhouse Gases:
-
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) – from cars, factories, and power plants
-
Methane (CH₄) – from farming, waste, and livestock
-
Nitrous oxide (N₂O) – from fertilizers and industrial processes
-
Water vapor – naturally occurring but influenced by warming
These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, causing the Earth to warm up — this is called the greenhouse effect.
🌦️ 3. Signs of Climate Change
-
Global temperatures are rising
-
Ice caps and glaciers are melting
-
Sea levels are rising
-
Weather events (storms, floods, heatwaves) are becoming more extreme
-
Ecosystems and wildlife habitats are shifting
-
Droughts and wildfires are becoming more frequent
⚠️ 4. Consequences Around the World
| Area | Impact |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Crop failure, food shortages, less water for farming |
| Health | More heatwaves, disease spread (e.g., malaria, dengue) |
| Nature | Extinction of species, habitat loss, coral reef bleaching |
| Cities | Flooding, extreme weather damage, infrastructure at risk |
| Economy | Billions in disaster recovery, insurance costs, job losses |
🌱 5. What Can We Do?
✅ As Individuals:
-
Use less energy (turn off lights, use efficient appliances)
-
Drive less, walk or bike more
-
Recycle and reduce waste
-
Plant trees
-
Use reusable bags, bottles, and containers
-
Eat less meat (especially beef, which produces methane)
🌍 As Governments and Societies:
-
Switch to renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro)
-
Support green technologies
-
Protect forests and oceans
-
Pass climate-friendly laws and regulations
-
Follow global agreements like the Paris Agreement
-
Educate citizens about sustainability
📊 Quick Facts:
-
Global temperature has risen by about 1.1°C since 1880
-
Arctic sea ice is shrinking by about 13% per decade
-
Global sea levels have risen by over 20 cm in the past century
✅ Conclusion
🌎 Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing humanity.
But every person can help — small actions add up to big impact.
Let’s protect our planet for future generations by acting now — together. 💚🌱