Understanding Climate Change: Causes and Consequences

Climate change refers to significant, long-term changes in global weather patterns. It's largely driven by human activities, particularly fossil fuel combustion, which increases greenhouse gas levels in Earth's atmosphere.

Carbon dioxide levels now exceed 400 parts per million, surpassing the natural range of the last 800,000 years. Ancient ice cores reveal pre-industrial levels were around 280 ppm, highlighting a stark human-induced increase.

The ocean absorbs about 30% of emitted carbon dioxide, leading to acidification. This process deteriorates coral reefs and affects marine life, disrupting ecosystems and fisheries, with profound economic and environmental implications.

Many glaciers have passed the point of no return, committed to melting even if temperatures stabilize. This irreversible ice loss contributes to sea-level rise and freshwater scarcity, impacting millions globally.

Thawing permafrost releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. This feedback loop intensifies warming. Siberian craters and accelerated decomposition in Arctic peatlands underscore permafrost's vulnerability and its climate impact.

Warming climates expand habitats for vectors like mosquitoes, increasing the spread of diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. The intersection of climate change and health presents a growing, yet underappreciated, global challenge.

Renewable energy is surging, with solar panel costs dropping by over 80% since 2010. Wind and solar energy are now often cheaper than coal and natural gas, signaling a potential turning point in energy production.