Climate change
Climate change is the long-term shift in temperatures and weather patterns, largely driven by human activity.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Since the industrial era, human activities have been the main driver, chiefly the burning of fossil fuels.
Causes
Burning coal, oil and gas releases greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, which trap heat in the atmosphere and cause global warming.
Effects
Consequences include rising sea levels, more extreme weather, melting glaciers and threats to agriculture and wildlife.
Response
Countries have agreed under the Paris Agreement to limit warming, promoting renewable energy and lower emissions.
Frequently asked questions
What causes climate change?
Mainly greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels.
Why is climate change a problem?
It raises sea levels and causes more extreme weather.