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The Science of Climate Change
Climate change refers to significant, long-term changes in the global climate. The primary
cause of recent climate change is human activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse
gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). These gases trap
heat in the atmosphere, leading to a warming effect known as the greenhouse effect.
Greenhouse Effect: The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth's surface.
When the Sun's energy reaches the Earth, some of it is reflected back to space, and the rest is
absorbed, warming the planet. This energy is then radiated back towards space as heat.
Greenhouse gases absorb some of this heat, trapping it in the atmosphere and keeping the
Earth warm enough to support life. However, human activities have increased the
concentration of these gases, enhancing the greenhouse effect and causing the Earth's
temperature to rise.
Table1.Impact of greenhouse Gases
13
Greenhouse Source Impact on Climate
CH4 Agriculture, landfills More potent than CO2
CO2 Fossil fuel combustion Warming effect
HFCs Refrigerants High global warming potential
N2O Industrial activities Greenhouse effect
Evidence of Climate Change: There is a wealth of evidence indicating that the climate is
changing:
Rising Temperatures: Global temperatures have risen by about 1.2°C since the
late 19th century.
Krishna Gupta IN339 1
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Climate Change 26-07-24
Melting Ice: Glaciers and ice sheets are shrinking, contributing to sea level
rise.
Changing Weather Patterns: There has been an increase in the frequency and
intensity of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, heatwaves, and heavy
rainfall.
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Impacts of Climate Change
Climate change has wide-ranging effects on the environment, human health, and the
economy. Some of the key impacts include:
Environment Impacts
Human Health
Economic
Environmental Impacts:
Sea Level Rise: Melting ice and the expansion of seawater as it warms are
causing sea levels to rise, leading to coastal erosion and increased flooding.
Loss of Biodiversity: Many species are at risk of extinction due to changing
habitats and temperatures.
Ocean Acidification: Increased CO2 levels are causing the oceans to become
more acidic, affecting marine life.
Human Health Impacts:
Heat-Related Illnesses: Rising temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion and
heatstroke.
Spread of Diseases: Warmer temperatures can expand the range of disease-
carrying insects, such as mosquitoes.
Food and Water Security: Changes in climate can affect crop yields and water
availability, leading to food and water shortages.
Economic Impacts:
Damage to Infrastructure: Extreme weather events can damage buildings,
roads, and other infrastructure, leading to costly repairs.
Impact on Agriculture: Changes in weather patterns can affect crop
production, impacting food supply and prices.
Energy Costs: Higher temperatures can increase energy demand for cooling,
leading to higher energy costs.
Addressing Climate Change: Mitigating climate change involves reducing greenhouse gas
emissions and enhancing carbon sinks, such as forests. Adaptation strategies are also
necessary to cope with the changes that are already occurring. This includes building resilient
infrastructure, protecting natural ecosystems, and developing early warning systems for
extreme weather events.
Steps to mitigate climate change:
1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Enhance carbon sinks.
3. Build resilient infrastructure.
4. Protect natural ecosystems.
5. Develop early warning systems for weather events
Krishna Gupta IN339 1
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