Climate Change Notes
1. Definition of Climate Change
Climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other
elements of the Earth's climate system. It can be caused by natural factors and human activities.
2. Causes of Climate Change
- Natural Causes:
- Volcanic eruptions
- Ocean current changes
- Solar radiation variations
- Human Causes (Anthropogenic):
- Burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas)
- Deforestation
- Industrial emissions
- Agriculture (methane from livestock)
- Land use changes
3. Greenhouse Effect
- Natural process that warms the Earth's surface.
- Greenhouse gases (GHGs) trap heat in the atmosphere.
- Key GHGs: Carbon dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4), Nitrous oxide (N2O), Water vapor, Ozone (O3)
4. Global Warming
- A significant aspect of climate change.
- Refers to the rise in global average temperatures due to increased GHG concentrations.
5. Effects of Climate Change
- Rising sea levels
- Melting polar ice and glaciers
- More extreme weather events (storms, droughts, heatwaves)
- Ocean acidification
- Habitat loss and species extinction
- Agricultural impact (crop failure, food insecurity)
6. Evidence of Climate Change
- Temperature records
- Satellite imagery
- Ice core samples
- Glacial retreat
- Changes in animal migration and flowering seasons
7. Mitigation Strategies
- Reducing GHG emissions
- Renewable energy use (solar, wind, hydro)
- Energy efficiency
- Reforestation and afforestation
- Sustainable agriculture
- Carbon capture and storage (CCS)
8. Adaptation Strategies
- Building climate-resilient infrastructure
- Early warning systems
- Drought-resistant crops
- Improved water management
- Coastal defenses
9. International Agreements
- Kyoto Protocol (1997): First international treaty to reduce GHG emissions.
- Paris Agreement (2015): Aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels.
10. Role of Individuals
- Reduce, reuse, recycle
- Use public transport or cycle
- Conserve electricity and water
- Support sustainable practices and policies
- Raise awareness about climate change