Definition of Climate Change
Climate change refers to long-term alterations in global or regional climate patterns, primarily manifested as shifts in temperature, precipitation, and wind. Unlike short-term weather fluctuations, it involves sustained changes over decades or longer, often resulting from both natural and human-induced factors.
Primary Causes of Climate Change
The main causes are human activities that increase greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, such as burning fossil fuels for energy, deforestation, and industrial processes. These gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), trap heat from the sun, leading to the greenhouse effect. Natural factors like volcanic eruptions and solar variations contribute minimally compared to anthropogenic influences.
Practical Example: Rising Global Temperatures
A clear example is the observed rise in average global temperatures since the Industrial Revolution. For instance, the burning of coal and oil in power plants and vehicles has released vast amounts of CO2, contributing to a temperature increase of about 1.1°C since pre-industrial times, as documented by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Importance and Real-World Applications
Understanding climate change is crucial for addressing its impacts, such as extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and biodiversity loss. It informs policy decisions, like transitioning to renewable energy sources, and supports adaptation strategies in agriculture and urban planning to mitigate risks and promote sustainability.