🌍 Class Notes on Climate Change
📘 Class Notes: Climate Change and Its Impact
Date: August 7, 2025
Instructor: N/A
Topic: Understanding Climate Change
🌡 What is Climate Change?
Climate Change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily
caused by human activities—especially the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas.
🏭 Main Causes of Climate Change
1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGs):
o Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) – from burning fossil fuels
o Methane (CH₄) – from agriculture, livestock
o Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) – from fertilizers and industry
2. Deforestation:
o Trees absorb CO₂; cutting them down increases GHG levels.
3. Industrial Activities:
o Manufacturing and energy production release large amounts of CO₂.
🌎 Evidence of Climate Change
• Rising global temperatures (warming by ~1.2°C since pre-industrial times)
• Melting glaciers and polar ice caps
• Rising sea levels
• More frequent extreme weather (heatwaves, droughts, hurricanes)
• Ocean acidification
🚨 Consequences of Climate Change
Area Impact
Environment Loss of biodiversity, coral reef bleaching
Weather More extreme and unpredictable conditions
Human Health Spread of disease, heat-related illnesses
Area Impact
Agriculture Crop failures, food insecurity
Economy Infrastructure damage, higher disaster costs
🌿 Solutions and Mitigation
1. Renewable Energy:
o Solar, wind, hydro, geothermal
2. Energy Efficiency:
o Smarter appliances, better building insulation
3. Reforestation & Afforestation:
o Planting trees to absorb CO₂
4. Sustainable Agriculture:
o Reducing emissions from food production
5. Climate Policy:
o International agreements (e.g., Paris Agreement)
💡 Individual Actions
• Reduce, reuse, recycle
• Use public transport, bike, or walk
• Eat more plant-based foods
• Support sustainable brands
• Vote for climate-conscious policies
🧭 Key Takeaways
• Climate change is a pressing global issue caused by human activities.
• Its effects are already visible and widespread.
• Immediate action is necessary—both at the government and individual level—to slow
its impact and protect future generations.