Climate Change 101: What You Need to Know

Climate change has become one of the most pressing issues of our time, with far-reaching consequences for the planet and all life forms inhabiting it. At the heart of this global challenge lie the activities of humanity, particularly the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. These activities account for a staggering 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with carbon dioxide (CO2) being the most common and abundant greenhouse gas.

As greenhouse gases accumulate in the Earth's atmosphere, they form a blanket that traps the sun's heat, leading to a phenomenon known as global warming. This warming is happening at an unprecedented rate, disrupting weather patterns and upsetting the delicate balance of nature. The consequences are dire, posing significant risks to ecosystems, biodiversity, and human societies worldwide.

CO2 is not the only greenhouse gas of concern. Methane, nitrous oxide, black carbon, and fluorinated gases contribute to the problem, albeit in smaller quantities. Despite their lesser emissions, these gases have a potent warming effect, exacerbating the impacts of climate change.

The consequences of climate change manifest in several critical environmental changes:

1. Warming temperatures: The Earth's surface and oceans are heating up at an alarming rate, disrupting ecosystems and weather patterns.
2. Changes in the water cycle: Shifts in precipitation patterns are leading to more frequent droughts in some areas and increased precipitation in others, intensifying storms and flooding events.
3. Declining glaciers and snowpack: Glaciers worldwide are retreating, impacting water resources for billions of people dependent on glacial melt.
4. Sea level rise: Warmer oceans expand, causing sea levels to rise, threatening coastal communities and ecosystems.
5. Ocean acidification: Increased CO2 absorption by oceans leads to acidification, harming marine life and ecosystems.

These global changes reverberate locally, resulting in more extreme weather events, prolonged heatwaves, droughts, floods, and worsened air quality. Particularly vulnerable are marginalized communities and regions least equipped to adapt to these changes.

Addressing climate change requires concerted efforts to mitigate long-lived and short-lived climate pollutants. While carbon dioxide remains the primary concern due to its long-lasting impact, reducing short-lived climate pollutants like methane and black carbon can offer immediate benefits.

By transitioning to carbon-free transportation and energy systems and implementing strategies to reduce short-lived climate pollutants, we can mitigate the worst impacts of climate change. These efforts not only safeguard the planet for future generations but also improve public health and equity, making our communities more resilient in the face of a changing climate.

Sources -https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/science/causes-effects-climate-change

https://climatehealthconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Climate101.pdf