Overview
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global temperatures and weather patterns. While natural factors contribute, scientific consensus (97%+ of climate scientists) attributes the accelerated warming since the mid-20th century to human activities, primarily burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial agriculture.
The Science
Greenhouse gases (CO₂, methane, nitrous oxide) trap heat in the atmosphere. Atmospheric CO₂ has risen from 280 ppm pre-industrial to over 425 ppm in 2025. The IPCC's Sixth Assessment Report projects warming of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by the early 2030s under current emission trajectories.
Observed Impacts
Effects include rising sea levels (3.7 mm/year), more frequent extreme weather events, ocean acidification, glacier retreat, permafrost thawing, biodiversity loss, and shifts in agricultural zones. The Arctic has warmed nearly four times faster than the global average since 1979.
Mitigation & Adaptation
The Paris Agreement aims to limit warming to 1.5–2°C. Strategies include rapid decarbonization of energy systems, electrification of transport, carbon capture and storage, methane reduction, reforestation, and climate-resilient infrastructure. Global renewable energy capacity surpassed 4,000 GW in 2024.