7-2-2 Climate Change Explained
Key Concepts
- Climate Change
- Greenhouse Effect
- Greenhouse Gases
- Global Warming
- Carbon Footprint
- Mitigation and Adaptation
Climate Change
Climate change refers to significant and lasting changes in the Earth's climate, including temperature, precipitation patterns, and wind patterns. It is primarily driven by human activities that increase the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Example: The gradual increase in global average temperatures over the past century is a clear indicator of climate change, affecting weather patterns and ecosystems worldwide.
Greenhouse Effect
The greenhouse effect is a natural process where certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat from the sun, creating a warm environment necessary for life. However, an enhanced greenhouse effect due to human activities is leading to global warming.
Example: Think of the Earth's atmosphere as a blanket that keeps the planet warm. When too many blankets (greenhouse gases) are added, the planet gets too hot.
Greenhouse Gases
Greenhouse gases are gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing and emitting infrared radiation. Major greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and fluorinated gases.
Example: Burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas releases CO2, which is the most significant greenhouse gas contributing to climate change.
Global Warming
Global warming is the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to the enhanced greenhouse effect. It leads to various impacts, including melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and more frequent extreme weather events.
Example: The melting of glaciers in the Arctic and Antarctic regions is a direct result of global warming, contributing to rising sea levels and threatening coastal communities.
Carbon Footprint
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases, primarily CO2, emitted by an individual, organization, event, or product. Reducing carbon footprints is crucial for mitigating climate change.
Example: A person who drives a car frequently has a larger carbon footprint compared to someone who uses public transportation or bikes, contributing less to greenhouse gas emissions.
Mitigation and Adaptation
Mitigation refers to actions taken to reduce or prevent the emission of greenhouse gases, such as transitioning to renewable energy sources. Adaptation involves adjusting to current or expected changes in climate and its effects, such as building sea walls to protect against rising sea levels.
Example: Installing solar panels on rooftops is a form of mitigation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Building flood barriers is an example of adaptation to protect communities from increased flooding due to climate change.