What are the main causes and impacts of climate change

Discuss the causes of climate change and its impacts on the environment and society.
The main causes of climate change are:
  • Greenhouse gas emissions: Increased burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, trapping heat and leading to global warming.
  • Deforestation: The removal of forests reduces the Earth's capacity to absorb CO2, contributing to higher concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
  • Agricultural activities: Practices like livestock farming and the use of synthetic fertilizers release methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O), both potent greenhouse gases.
  • Industrial processes: The production and release of gases, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in air conditioning and refrigeration, contribute to climate change.
The impacts of climate change on the environment and society are:
  • Rising temperatures: Higher temperatures can lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires.
  • Extreme weather events: Climate change can increase the intensity and frequency of hurricanes, storms, floods, and other extreme weather events, causing damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and human lives.
  • Rising sea levels: Melting ice caps and glaciers contribute to sea-level rise, posing risks to coastal communities, ecosystems, and freshwater resources.
  • Ecosystem disruption: Changing climate conditions can adversely affect ecosystems, causing shifts in plant and animal habitats, disruptions to migration patterns, and the loss of biodiversity.
  • Human health impacts: Climate change can increase the spread of diseases, as well as impact access to clean water, food security, and mental health.
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