Global climate change refers to long-term alterations in the average weather patterns and conditions on Earth, primarily driven by human activities releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. It pertains to the increasing trend of global surface temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, rising sea levels, and other related environmental shifts that are occurring worldwide. Climate change affects various aspects of Earth's systems, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere (water bodies), cryosphere (ice and snow-covered regions), biosphere (living organisms), and lithosphere (Earth's crust).
Caused mainly by the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as deforestation and industrial activities, global climate change leads to a buildup of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the Sun, preventing it from escaping back into space and causing the Earth's surface temperature to rise. As a result, climate patterns become more extreme and unpredictable, giving rise to more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, floods, storms, and other weather events.
Global climate change has far-reaching consequences for both natural and human systems. It poses significant risks to ecosystems and biodiversity, threatening habitat destruction, species extinction, and disruption of ecological balances. Additionally, it impacts human societies by affecting agriculture, water resources, public health, and economic stability. Recognizing the urgent need to mitigate climate change, efforts are being made globally to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, shift towards renewable energy sources, and adapt to the changing conditions in order to minimize the long-term impacts on the planet and its inhabitants.
