CLIMATE CHANGE

PRERNA FOR IAS

CLIMATE CHANGE

1. Climate Change

Climate change refers to long-term changes in Earth's temperature, rainfall, wind patterns, and other climatic conditions. It includes both natural variations and changes caused by human activities. According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), climate change is largely linked to human actions that alter the atmosphere's composition. Activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrialization increase greenhouse gas concentrations, leading to changes in weather and climate systems. Climate change affects ecosystems, agriculture, water resources, and human health. It is a global challenge that impacts all countries and requires international cooperation to address effectively.

2. Global Warming

Global warming is the gradual increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to the enhanced greenhouse effect. It is primarily caused by increased emissions of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide from human activities. Global warming is a major aspect of climate change but does not include all climatic changes. Rising temperatures lead to melting glaciers, rising sea levels, heat waves, and changes in precipitation patterns. Scientific evidence shows that recent warming is occurring much faster than natural climate variations. Addressing global warming requires reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable energy and environmental practices worldwide.

3. Industrial Revolution and Temperature Rise

The Industrial Revolution, which began in the 18th century, transformed economies through mechanized production and increased energy use. However, it also led to large-scale burning of coal, oil, and natural gas, releasing significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. These emissions strengthened the greenhouse effect, trapping more heat and causing global temperatures to rise. Since the Industrial Revolution, Earth's average temperature has increased noticeably. Scientists consider industrialization a major factor behind modern climate change. While industrial development improved living standards and economic growth, it also created environmental challenges that now require global efforts to reduce emissions and promote sustainability.

4. Definition of Climate Change by Human Activity