Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. These changes can be natural, resulting from variations in the sun’s activity or large volcanic eruptions. However, since the 1800s, human activities—primarily the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas—have become the main driver of climate change. The impact includes alterations in Earth’s local, regional, and global climates, affecting everything from average temperatures to extreme weather events.

The major contributors are

1.Greenhouse Gases (GHGs):

• Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): Released from burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
• Methane (CH₄): From livestock, landfills, and fossil fuel production.
• Nitrous Oxide (N₂O): Emitted during fertilizer use and fossil fuel burning.
• Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs): Industrial compounds (now regulated).
• Water Vapor

2. Industrialized Nations

Industrialized nations are defined as places where a large portion of the gross domestic product and exports comes from industrial production. 

3.Land Use (deforestation, urbanization, agriculture)

All throughout human history, we have subjugated natural lands to our own purposes. Forests cover around 31% of the world and hold more than 80% of the world’s terrestrial species; however, humans are decreasing the amount of forested land and, consequently, the biodiversity housed there.

4.Waste

In a world of mass production, humans produce more waste than we know what to do with.

Around the world, about 30% of total food production is wasted either before or after it reaches its consumers. Around 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste is generated globally every year.

International Measures:

• Paris Agreement: Adopted in 2015, aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C (preferably 1.5°C). Countries committed to emission reduction and adaptation efforts.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Goal 13 focuses on climate action, intrinsically linked to other SDGs.
• IPCC Reports: Provide assessments and guidance for mitigation efforts.
• Renewable Energy Transition: Shift to cleaner energy sources.
• Global Cooperation: Coordinated efforts to address emissions worldwide.

climate change results from human activities that release greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. Major contributors include carbon dioxide (CO₂) from fossil fuels, methane (CH₄) from livestock and landfills, and nitrous oxide (N₂O) from agriculture. International efforts, such as the Paris Agreement, aim to limit global warming, transition to renewable energy, and promote global cooperation. Let’s work together to protect our planet!