Climate change is an ongoing change in the Earth’s atmosphere, oceans and land. The change affects many aspects of the planet, including weather patterns, agriculture and wildlife.
The climate system is a complex and dynamic global system. It is influenced by changes in sunlight, ice and atmospheric gases that prevent heat from radiating into space (the greenhouse effect). The effects of climate change are very varied and can be natural or anthropogenic. The main contributors are greenhouse gases emitted by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
There are also natural changes in the climate, such as the El Nino and La Nina seasons. The frequency and intensity of these seasonal events vary widely around the world.
Coastal areas are often less affected than inland regions because the oceans keep temperatures stable. However, some areas have become hotter or colder over the past century.
Some of the most obvious effects of climate change include increased drought, wildfires, and warmer sea levels. These effects affect things that we all depend on, such as water and food supplies, transportation, and agriculture.
The climate changes over time because of solar activity, volcano eruptions and other natural processes. The climate change caused by these natural factors is called “internal variability.”
Scientists cannot predict when and where climate will change. But there are ways to help track the changes that are happening on our planet.
NASA uses satellites and other tools to monitor the Earth’s temperature, air pressure, wind speed, cloud cover and ocean chemistry. These instruments help scientists understand how the climate is changing and how it will change in the future.
Some of the most important climate-related changes are expected to happen in the coming years. If we do not act to curb emissions of greenhouse gases, global warming could become even worse in the near future.
We need to do everything we can to slow down or reverse the climate change that is occurring now, and make the best possible use of the resources that we have. This includes making sure that our energy, transportation and products are eco-friendly.
It also means using renewable sources of energy, such as solar and wind power. Buying and using renewable energy can help the planet stay healthy for future generations.
When you buy a product, look for the label that says it is made with renewable materials. You can also choose to support sustainable businesses that are taking a more responsible approach to their production and business practices.
You can also offset your emissions, such as by purchasing carbon credits from the UN Climate Convention. These credits can be used to compensate for the emissions you can’t avoid, such as by flying or driving a car.
Taking action is the only way to stop global warming from affecting all aspects of our lives. There is no time to waste in preparing for the future and reducing our carbon footprints.