Climate Change - Notes
1. Definition
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily caused by human
activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.
2. Causes of Climate Change
a. Natural Causes:
- Volcanic eruptions
- Ocean currents
- Solar radiation variations
- Natural greenhouse gas emissions
b. Human-Induced Causes:
- Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas) increases CO2
- Deforestation reduces carbon absorption
- Industrialization emits GHGs (CO2, CH4, N2O)
- Agriculture, especially livestock (methane)
- Waste management (landfills release methane)
3. Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) - from fossil fuels
- Methane (CH4) - from livestock, rice paddies
- Nitrous oxide (N2O) - from fertilizers
- Fluorinated gases - industrial emissions
4. Effects of Climate Change
- Rising global temperatures
- Melting ice caps and glaciers
- Rising sea levels and coastal flooding
Climate Change - Notes
- Ocean acidification
- Frequent natural disasters
- Threats to biodiversity
- Agricultural impact
- Health risks
5. Evidence of Climate Change
- Temperature records
- Shrinking ice sheets
- Glacial retreat
- Decreased snow cover
- Sea level rise
- Extreme weather events
6. Global Responses
- Paris Agreement (2015) - limit warming below 2°C
- Kyoto Protocol - binding targets for developed nations
- IPCC Reports - scientific assessments
7. Mitigation Strategies
- Renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro)
- Energy efficiency
- Reforestation and afforestation
- Carbon capture and storage
- Sustainable agriculture
- Waste reduction and recycling
8. Adaptation Strategies
Climate Change - Notes
- Climate-resilient infrastructure
- Drought-resistant crops
- Flood defenses and warning systems
- Water conservation
- Public education
9. Role of Individuals
- Reduce energy use and waste
- Use public transport or cycle
- Support eco-friendly products
- Conserve water and electricity
- Plant trees and avoid plastics