Causes of Global Warming

  1. Burning Fossil Fuels: For electricity, heating, transportation.

  2. Deforestation: Reduces the planet’s ability to absorb CO₂.

  3. Agriculture: Methane from livestock, nitrous oxide from fertilizers.

  4. Industrial Activities: Emission of greenhouse gases from factories.

Effects of Global Warming on Our Planet

1. Climate Changes

  • More extreme weather: Heatwaves, hurricanes, droughts, and floods are becoming more intense and frequent.

  • Changing rainfall patterns: Some areas are becoming wetter, others drier.

2. Melting Ice and Rising Sea Levels

  • Polar ice caps and glaciers are melting.

  • Sea levels are rising, threatening coastal communities with flooding and erosion.

3. Ocean Impacts

  • Warmer oceans: Affect marine life and weather patterns.

  • Ocean acidification: Harms coral reefs and shellfish due to more CO₂ dissolving in water.

4. Biodiversity Loss

  • Many species are struggling to adapt to rapid climate changes.

  • Habitats like coral reefs, Arctic tundra, and rainforests are under severe threat.

5. Impact on Human Health

  • Spread of diseases like malaria and dengue as warmer climates expand mosquito ranges.

  • Increased heat-related illnesses and food/water insecurity.

6. Economic Consequences

  • Damage to infrastructure from storms and floods.

  • Disruption of agriculture leading to food shortages and higher prices.

  • Costs of disaster relief and adaptation measures.

What Can Be Done?

  • Switch to renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro).

  • Improve energy efficiency in buildings and transport.

  • Reforestation and conservation efforts.

  • Support sustainable agriculture.

  • International cooperation (e.g., Paris Agreement).

  • Individual actions: Reduce, reuse, recycle, and eat less meat.