Climate 101 a full science-based explanation

Is it climate change, global warming, or global climate crisis?

The terms “climate change,” “global warming,” and “global climate crisis” are often used interchangeably, but they have slightly different meanings.

“Climate change” refers to the long-term changes in the Earth’s climate, including changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and weather events, that have occurred over several decades or more.

This term is often used to describe the scientific phenomenon of changes in the Earth’s climate caused by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and land use changes.

“Global warming” specifically refers to the increase in the Earth’s average surface temperature caused by the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, primarily carbon dioxide emissions from human activities. As the temperature rises, various impacts are changing aspects of our climate—hotter summers, rising ocean temperatures, melting polar ice, increased storm activity. These go beyond mere changes in the weather.

“Global climate crisis” is a term that is often used to describe the urgent and severe nature of the problem of climate change. This term emphasizes the need for immediate action to address the crisis and the potential consequences of not taking action. As these impacts grow in frequency and severity, they will — and in many cases already have — create crises for people and nature around the world. If unchecked, these impacts will spread and worsen with more animal extinction and biodiversity loss, water shortages, and displaced communities.

In general, all three terms can be used to describe the same phenomenon, but “global climate crisis” emphasizes the urgency and severity of the situation, while “climate change” and “global warming” are more descriptive of the scientific phenomenon itself.

Is climate change caused by humans?

Yes, over 97% of scientist agree that humans cause climate change. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which is the leading international body for the assessment of climate change, has stated that it is extremely likely (i.e., with a probability of 95-100%) that human activities have been the dominant cause of climate change observed since the mid-20th century.

The scientific consensus is that climate change is primarily caused by human activities, specifically the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere as a result of burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas, deforestation, and other land use changes. These greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to an increase in global temperatures and other climate-related changes such as sea level rise, more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, and storms.

Over Earth’s history, while natural factors, such as volcanic eruptions and changes in solar radiation, can also contribute to climate change, their influence is much smaller than human activities.

The rises in temperature and carbon dioxide levels we’ve seen in the past century are extreme and are accelerating. The rate of carbon emissions are the highest they’ve been in 66 million years and the amount of warming in the coming decades is expected to be 250 times greater than the average warming during the past century.

What are the main threats of climate change?

Climate change poses a wide range of threats to the environment, human societies, and the economy. Some of the main threats include:

1. Extreme weather events: Climate change is expected to cause more frequent and intense heatwaves, droughts, floods, storms, and wildfires. These events can lead to loss of life, property damage, and disruptions to infrastructure and transportation.
2. Rising sea levels: As the planet warms, glaciers and ice sheets are melting, leading to rising sea levels. This can cause coastal flooding, erosion, and the loss of valuable coastal habitats.
3. Changes to ecosystems: Climate change can lead to changes in the timing and behavior of plants and animals, which can disrupt ecosystems and lead to the extinction of species. It can also lead to the spread of invasive species and diseases.
4. Ecosystem collapse: Climate change affects ocean habitats by lowering oxygen, decreasing phytoplankton (little plants that serve as the base of marine food chains) and killing coral reefs.
5. Food and water insecurity: Climate change is expected to affect food production and water availability, particularly in regions that are already vulnerable to these issues. This can lead to food and water scarcity, malnutrition, and increased conflicts over resources.
6. Health impacts: Climate change can increase the prevalence of heat-related illnesses, infectious diseases, and respiratory problems. It can also lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Overall, climate change poses a significant threat to the planet and its inhabitants, and urgent action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the changing climate.

How is climate change affecting animals?

Climate change is affecting animals in a variety of ways, including changes to their habitats, behaviors, and life cycles. Some of the impacts of climate change on animals include:

1. Changes to migration patterns: In both oceans and on land, the changes in temperature and moisture are causing some species to migrate in search of new places to live. For instance, in North America, species are shifting their ranges an average of 11 miles north and 36 feet higher in elevation each decade to find more favorable conditions. The Central Appalachians are one resilient climate escape route that may help species adapt to changing conditions.
2. Changes to flight patterns: Some species such as birds and butterflies, rely on seasonal changes in temperature and weather patterns to guide their migration. As these patterns change due to climate change, animals may be forced to change their migration routes, timing, or even stop migrating altogether.
3. Habitat loss: Many species of animals are adapted to live in specific environments, such as polar bears in the Arctic or koalas in eucalyptus forests. As these environments change due to climate change, animals may be forced to move to new areas or face extinction. Polar bears, for instance that live on polar ice are now struggling to survive as that ice melts.
4. Changes to breeding and feeding patterns: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can affect the availability of food for animals, as well as the timing of breeding and reproduction cycles. This can lead to declines in population size and changes in the distribution of species. In the U.S. and Canada, moose are struggling due to an increase in ticks and parasites that are surviving the shorter, milder winters. In another case, salmon rely on steady-flowing cold rivers to spawn. As climate change alters the temperature and flow of these waterways, some salmon populations are dwindling. This affects many species that rely on salmon like orcas or grizzly bears.
5. Ocean acidification: As the ocean absorbs more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, it becomes more acidic, which can make it more difficult for animals such as corals and shellfish to build their shells and skeletons.

Overall, climate change is having a significant impact on animals around the world, and many species are at risk of extinction due to changes in their habitats and food sources. Protecting and preserving habitats, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and taking steps to adapt to the changing climate are all important steps in mitigating the impacts of climate change on animals.

How is climate change affecting people?

From straining agricultural systems to making regions less habitable, climate change is affecting people in many ways, and the impacts are expected to become more severe in the coming decades. Some of the ways in which climate change is affecting people include:

1. Extreme weather events: Climate change is leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, floods, storms, and wildfires. These events can cause loss of life, property damage, and disruptions to infrastructure and transportation.
2. Health impacts: Climate change can lead to increased prevalence of heat-related illnesses, infectious diseases, and respiratory problems. It can also lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
3. Food and water insecurity: Climate change is expected to affect food production and water availability, particularly in regions that are already vulnerable to these issues. This can lead to food and water scarcity, malnutrition, and increased conflicts over resources.
4. Economic impacts: Climate change is expected to cause significant economic losses due to damage to infrastructure, lost productivity, and disruptions to supply chains. Some regions may experience economic growth due to longer growing seasons or increased tourism, but these benefits are likely to be outweighed by the costs of climate change.
5. Displacement and migration: Climate change is expected to lead to displacement and migration of people, particularly those living in low-lying coastal areas or regions that are prone to droughts or other extreme weather events. Many areas are experiencing “sunny day flooding” as rising sea levels cause streets to flood during high tides. In Alaska, some entire coastal communities are being moved because the sea level has risen to the point where their original location is no longer habitable.

Many of these impacts are happening disproportionately in low-income, Indigenous, or marginalized communities. Around the globe, many of the poorest nations are being impacted first and most severely by climate change, even though they have contributed far less to the increase in carbon emissions that has caused the warming in the first place.

How is climate change affecting the ocean?

Climate change is having a significant impact on the ocean, which plays a critical role in regulating the Earth’s climate and supporting life on the planet. Some of the ways in which climate change is affecting the ocean include:

1. Ocean warming: As the planet warms due to greenhouse gas emissions, the ocean is also warming. This can lead to shifting ocean currents and weather patterns, as well as changes in marine ecosystems.
2. Ocean acidification: As the ocean absorbs more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, it becomes more acidic. In fact, the rate of ocean acidification is the highest it has been in 300 million years! This can make it more difficult for marine organisms such as corals and shellfish to build their shells and skeletons, leading to coral bleaching and die off. This can have impacts on entire marine ecosystems.
3. Limited marine food web: There are deeper issues at play. As the ocean surface warms, it’s less able to mix with deep, nutrient-rich water which limits the growth of phytoplankton (little plants that serve as the base of the marine food web). This in turn affects the whole food chain.
4. Slowing ocean currents: There is some evidence that warming surface waters may be contributing to slowing ocean currents. Together, these currents act like a giant global conveyor belt that transports heat from the tropics toward the poles. This conveyor belt is critical for bringing nutrient rich waters towards the surface near the poles where giant blooms of food web supporting blooms of phytoplankton occur (this is why the Arctic and Antarctic are known for having such high abundance of fish and marine mammals).
5. Sea level rise: As polar glaciers and ice sheets melt due to rising temperatures, sea levels are rising. This can cause coastal flooding, erosion, and the loss of valuable coastal habitats.
6. Changes to marine ecosystems: Changes in temperature and acidity levels can lead to changes in the distribution and abundance of marine species, as well as changes in the timing of important biological events such as breeding and migration.
7. Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events: Climate change is leading to more frequent and severe hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones, which can cause damage to marine ecosystems and disrupt fisheries.

Overall, climate change is having a significant impact on the ocean, and urgent action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect marine ecosystems. This includes measures such as reducing carbon emissions, protecting marine habitats, and developing strategies to adapt to the changing climate.

How is climate change affecting farms and our food?

Climate change is affecting farms and our food in a variety of ways, including changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and changes in pest and disease patterns. Some of the ways in which climate change is affecting farms and our food include:

1. Changes in crop yields: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can affect the growth and yield of crops. Droughts, floods, and heatwaves can all lead to reduced crop yields and lower quality of crops.
2. Changes in crop suitability: As temperatures and rainfall patterns change, the suitability of different crops for certain regions may also change. This can lead to shifts in agriculture practices and changes in the types of crops that are grown in different regions.
3. Increased pest and disease pressure: Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns can affect the distribution and abundance of pests and diseases that affect crops. This can lead to increased pressure on farmers to control these pests and diseases and prevent crop losses.
4. Changes in livestock productivity: Heat stress can affect the productivity of livestock, leading to reduced milk and meat production, and even death in extreme cases.
5. Increased food insecurity: Changes in crop yields and suitability can lead to food shortages and price spikes, particularly in regions that are already vulnerable to food insecurity.

Overall, climate change is expected to have significant impacts on agriculture and the availability and quality of food. However, farmers are poised to play a significant role in addressing climate change. Agricultural lands are among the Earth’s largest natural reservoirs of carbon, and when farmers use soil health practices like cover crops, reduced tillage and crop rotations, they can draw even more carbon out of the atmosphere.

These practices also help to improve the soil’s water-holding capacity, which is beneficial as water can be absorbed from the soil by crops during times of drought, and during heavy rainfalls, soil can help reduce flooding and run-off by slowing the release of water into streams.

Healthier soils can also improve crop yields, boost farmers’ profitability, and reduce erosion and fertilizer runoff from farm fields, which in turn means cleaner waterways for people and nature.

Does deforestation contribute to climate change?

Yes, deforestation is a major contributor to climate change. Forests are one of our most important types of natural carbon storage, Forests play a critical role in regulating the Earth’s climate by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. When forests are cut down or burned, this carbon is released into the atmosphere as CO2, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming.

Forests are some of the best “natural climate solutions” we have on this planet. In addition to releasing carbon into the atmosphere, deforestation can also contribute to climate change by reducing the capacity of ecosystems to absorb carbon. Trees and other vegetation absorb and store carbon through the process of photosynthesis, and when forests are destroyed, this carbon absorption capacity is lost.

Deforestation also has other impacts on the climate, such as changing the reflectivity of the Earth’s surface (also known as albedo), which can affect the amount of solar radiation absorbed by the planet. Deforestation can also affect local weather patterns, leading to changes in precipitation and temperature.

Overall, deforestation is a major contributor to climate change, and reducing deforestation rates and restoring degraded forests are important steps in mitigating climate change. Protecting forests can also help to conserve biodiversity, support local communities, and provide other ecosystem services such as water regulation and erosion control.

If we can slow or stop deforestation and manage natural land so that it is healthy, we could achieve up to one third of the emission reductions needed by 2030 to keep global temperatures from rising more than 2°C (3.6°C).

That’s the equivalent of the world putting a complete stop to burning oil.

What is climate change mitigation?

Climate change mitigation is a long-term measure aiming to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and limit the extent of global warming, in order to minimize the impacts of climate change.

There is no definitive list of climate mitigation strategies, as the most effective strategies can vary depending on the specific context and circumstances. However, here are some commonly proposed and implemented strategies:

1. Transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power
2. Increasing energy efficiency in buildings and transportation
3. Reducing emissions from the transportation sector by promoting alternative modes of transport such as public transit, biking, and walking, and shifting to electric vehicles and low-carbon fuels
4. Improving land use practices and increasing the capacity of carbon-sinks through reforestation and afforestation, and reducing deforestation and forest degradation
5. Encouraging sustainable agriculture practices, including reducing emissions from fertilizer use and livestock production, and promoting soil carbon sequestration
6. Promoting circular economy and reducing waste through recycling and reducing consumption
7. Supporting research and development of low-carbon technologies, such as carbon capture and storage and energy storage
8. Implementing policies and regulations, such as carbon pricing and emissions standards, to incentivize emissions reductions
9. Encouraging individuals and businesses to reduce their carbon footprint through education and outreach

This list is not exhaustive and different strategies may be more or less effective depending on the specific circumstances. Climate mitigation requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach that involves a variety of stakeholders, including government, industry, and civil society.

What is climate change adaption?

Climate change adaptation refers to the strategies and measures that can be taken to prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change, in order to reduce vulnerabilities and build resilience.

1. Developing early warning systems and emergency response plans
2. Improving infrastructure and building design to be more resilient to climate impacts such as floods, storms, and heatwaves
3. Enhancing water management, including conservation, reuse, and storage
4. Promoting sustainable agriculture practices that increase resilience to droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events
5. Implementing coastal protection measures such as dune restoration, beach nourishment, and wetland restoration
6. Protecting and restoring natural ecosystems, such as forests and wetlands, to enhance their ability to store carbon, regulate water flows, and provide habitat for wildlife
7. Encouraging the use of green infrastructure, such as permeable pavements, green roofs, and rain gardens, to reduce urban heat islands and stormwater runoff
8. Developing social safety nets to support vulnerable communities, such as those living in low-lying areas or in areas prone to droughts or floods
9. Improving public health infrastructure to address the increased risks of disease and heat-related illnesses associated with climate change
10. Developing innovative financing mechanisms, such as insurance or public-private partnerships, to support adaptation measures

This list is not exhaustive, but it gives an idea of the range of strategies that can be used to adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Climate change adaptation is becoming increasingly important as the impacts of climate change continue to be felt around the world. While mitigation efforts are important to reduce future impacts, adaptation measures are necessary to address the impacts that are already being felt and to prepare for the unavoidable impacts of climate change.

It is important to note that adaptation measures will vary depending on local circumstances and will need to be tailored to the specific needs and vulnerabilities of each community or region.

What are solutions to climate change?

There are many solutions to climate change, and addressing this global challenge will require action at all levels, from individuals to governments and international organizations. In order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) says we must reduce carbon emissions to the point where we hold global warming to no more than an additional 1.5 °C (~3 °F). To do that, we must as a planet commit ourselves to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Some of the key solutions include:

1. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: One of the most important solutions to climate change is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, which are the main driver of global warming. This will require a range of solutions applied together, to reach the goal. These measures include transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and reducing emissions from transportation, agriculture, and other sectors.
2. Natural climate solutions: Research shows that proper land management of forests and farmlands, also called natural climate solutions, can provide up to one-third of the emissions reductions necessary to reach the Paris Climate Agreement’s goal of aiming to keep temperature rise below 1.5 degrees (or nearly 3 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels.
3. Protecting and restoring ecosystems: Protecting and restoring forests, wetlands, and other ecosystems can help to absorb and store carbon, as well as provide other benefits such as supporting biodiversity and regulating water resources.
4. Energy transition: We’ll need to transition all sectors of our economy away from fossil fuels that emit carbon, increase our use of clean energy sources like wind and solar, harness the power of nature to capture carbon, and deploy technologies that capture and store carbon.
5. Investing in clean energy: Investing in clean energy technologies such as wind, solar, and hydropower can help to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Encouraging sustainable transportation: Encouraging the use of public transportation, biking, and walking, as well as increasing the use of electric and hybrid vehicles, can help to reduce emissions from transportation.
7. Promoting sustainable agriculture: Adopting more sustainable agriculture practices, such as reducing food waste, improving soil health, and reducing the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, can help to reduce emissions from agriculture and improve food security.
8. Supporting climate adaptation: Helping communities and ecosystems adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as sea level rise, droughts, and floods, is also an important part of addressing climate change.
9. Engaging in international cooperation: Addressing climate change requires global cooperation, and international agreements such as the Paris Agreement provide a framework for countries to work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address the impacts of climate change.

The truth, however, is that even if we do successfully reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, we will still have to address harmful climate impacts, and so the solution to climate change must also include measures to adapt to the impacts of global warming.

Overall, addressing climate change will require a wide range of solutions and actions, and it will be important for individuals, businesses, and governments to work together to address this global challenge.

What can I do to stop climate change?

Overall, there are many actions you can take as an individual to help stop climate change. By taking action and encouraging others to do the same, we can work towards a more sustainable future. While individual actions alone may not be enough to solve the problem, they are an important part of the solution and can help to create momentum for larger-scale actions.

Here are some things you can do:

1. Reduce your carbon footprint: The biggest impact you can have as an individual is to reduce your own carbon footprint. This can be done by reducing energy use in your home, using public transportation or biking instead of driving, eating a more plant-based diet, and reducing waste.
2. Support clean energy: You can support the transition to clean energy by choosing to buy green energy, investing in renewable energy, and advocating for policies that support the development of clean energy.
3. Reduce food waste: Food waste is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, so reducing your food waste can have a big impact. This can be done by planning meals, storing food properly, and composting.
4. Support climate-friendly policies: You can support policies that address climate change, such as carbon pricing, renewable energy standards, and energy efficiency standards. You can also vote for candidates who prioritize climate action.
5. Advocate for change: You can join advocacy groups and campaigns that work to address climate change, write to your elected officials to express your concerns about climate change, and share information about the issue with your friends and family.
6. Support local initiatives: You can support local initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as community gardens, bike share programs, and renewable energy projects.

How much renewable energy do we need to stop climate change?

The amount of renewable energy needed to stop climate change will depend on a variety of factors, including the level of greenhouse gas emissions reductions needed and the specific energy mix of each country or region.

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and avoid the worst impacts of climate change, global greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced by 50% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. This means that by mid-century, all greenhouse gas emissions must be balanced by removals, such as carbon capture or reforestation.

To achieve these goals, a significant increase in renewable energy deployment will be required. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that by 2050, renewable energy could provide up to 85% of global electricity generation. This would require an increase in renewable energy capacity of about 7.5 times the current level by 2050.

However, the transition to renewable energy will not be enough on its own. Other measures, such as energy efficiency improvements, reducing deforestation, and transitioning to sustainable transportation, will also be needed to achieve the necessary emissions reductions.

Overall, while the specific amount of renewable energy needed to stop climate change is uncertain and will depend on a variety of factors, a significant increase in renewable energy deployment is a critical part of the solution to addressing climate change.

Does renewable energy hurt the environment?

While renewable energy sources are generally considered to be less harmful to the environment than traditional fossil fuels, they can still have some negative impacts if not developed and managed carefully.

Here are some potential environmental impacts of renewable energy sources:

1. Land use: Renewable energy sources such as wind turbines and solar panels require land for their installation and operation. In some cases, this can lead to the loss of natural habitats and disruption of wildlife.
2. Wildlife impacts: Wind turbines and solar panels can pose a risk to wildlife such as birds and bats, which may collide with the structures or be affected by changes in habitat.
3. Water use: Some renewable energy sources, such as hydropower and concentrated solar power, require significant amounts of water for their operation, which can have negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems and water availability for other uses.
4. Material sourcing and disposal: The production of renewable energy technologies requires materials such as rare earth metals and other minerals, which may have environmental impacts associated with their extraction and processing. Similarly, the disposal of renewable energy technologies at the end of their lifespan can also have environmental impacts.
5. Visual impacts: Some renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines and solar panels, may be considered unsightly by some people and can impact the aesthetics of natural landscapes.

It is important to note, however, that these impacts are generally considered to be much less severe than the impacts associated with traditional fossil fuel sources. Additionally, many of these impacts can be mitigated through careful planning, site selection, and management practices.

Overall, renewable energy sources have the potential to cause environmental impacts, but with careful planning and management, these impacts can be minimized, and renewable energy can be an important part of the solution to addressing climate change while minimizing environmental harm.