The primary causes of climate change are the increased concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere, mainly due to human activities. The most significant GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). These gases trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, leading to the greenhouse effect. Key contributors to these emissions are the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy, deforestation, industrial processes, and agricultural practices.

The impacts of climate change on global ecosystems are profound and widespread. Rising global temperatures alter weather patterns, leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves, storms, droughts, and heavy rainfall. These changes disrupt habitats and biodiversity. For instance, polar ice melt reduces habitats for species like polar bears, while coral bleaching from warmer oceans threatens marine ecosystems.

Additionally, shifting climate zones force species to migrate, often leading to mismatches in ecological interactions and increased competition for resources. Ocean acidification, resulting from increased CO2 absorption, harms marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate shells or skeletons. Furthermore, climate change exacerbates the spread of invasive species and diseases, posing additional threats to native ecosystems.

In summary, human-induced greenhouse gas emissions drive climate change, significantly impacting global ecosystems by altering habitats, disrupting species interactions, and increasing environmental stressors.