Climate Change and Global Warming
Climate Change and Global Warming are two closely related environmental issues that have become some of the most urgent challenges facing humanity today. Here's a simple breakdown to help understand them:
🌍 Global Warming
Global warming refers specifically to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature, primarily due to human activities like:
- Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas)
- Deforestation
- Industrial emissions
These activities release greenhouse gases (GHGs) like carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O) into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, causing the planet to warm up—similar to a greenhouse trapping sunlight.
📈 Example: Global average temperatures have increased by over 1°C since pre-industrial times.
🌦️ Climate Change
Climate change is a broader term that includes global warming but also refers to other changes in climate patterns such as:
- More frequent and intense heatwaves
- Rising sea levels
- Changes in rainfall patterns
- Melting glaciers and polar ice caps
- Stronger storms and droughts
These changes affect ecosystems, agriculture, weather systems, and even human health and safety.
🔍 Causes of Climate Change
- Human activities (anthropogenic causes):
- Emissions from industries, vehicles, and power plants
- Land-use changes and urbanization
- Livestock farming (methane production)
- Natural causes (to a lesser extent):
- Volcanic eruptions
- Ocean current changes
- Solar radiation variations
🔄 Effects of Global Warming & Climate Change
- 🌊 Sea-level rise threatening coastal cities
- 🐾 Loss of biodiversity and wildlife habitats
- 🚰 Water scarcity and food security issues
- 🧍 Health risks: heat stress, diseases
- 🌾 Disruption of farming and livelihoods
- 🌀 More extreme weather events
✅ What Can Be Done?
Mitigation Measures:
- Switching to renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro)
- Promoting energy efficiency
- Afforestation and reforestation
- Reducing carbon footprint (eco-friendly transport, sustainable living)
Adaptation Measures:
- Developing climate-resilient infrastructure
- Improving disaster management
- Using climate-smart agriculture
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