Ch 4: Warming Warning
Understanding Climate Change
Written and designed by volunteers: Naima, Sushant, Senali, Jaunet, and D.Divinia
What is Climate Change?
Climate change is a long-term change in Earth’s weather and temperature, caused mainly by burning fossil fuels and cutting down forests. It results in global warming, extreme weather, rising seas, and harm to wildlife and ecosystems.
Causes of Climate Change
Climate change is driven by factories, livestock production, deforestation, and fossil fuels.Together, these sources release heat-trapping gases that raise global temperatures and harm the environment. This pollution contaminates the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the ecosystems we depend on.
Consequences of Climate Change
Climate change leads to rising global temperatures, which cause glaciers and polar ice to melt, resulting in higher sea levels and increased flooding in coastal areas. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and wildfires, are becoming more frequent and intense. Ecosystems are disrupted, threatening biodiversity and endangering species that cannot adapt quickly enough. These changes also affect human health, food security, and access to clean water worldwide.
How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Living sustainably starts with small daily choices. Try greener transportation methods like walking, biking, or carpooling to reduce your carbon footprint. Save energy by switching off lights and taps when not in use. Recycling materials like paper and bottles, and reusing items like grocery bags, helps keep waste out of landfills. Together, these simple habits make a big impact for a healthier planet.
