What is Climate Change?

 Now everyone’s talking about climate change. But first of all, what is climate? And why is it changing so fast? Our climate is the earth’s normal weather over a very long time period. It usually takes hundreds, or thousands of years for the climate to change. But recently, our climate has been changing much faster than before. All these changes make life difficult for our fauna, flora, and for people around the globe. And the biggest cause of climate change is human activities Including you and me. When we use fuel, like oil and gasoline, or remove forests to make space for cities or farms, we release greenhouse gases into our atmosphere. These greenhouse gases cause our climate to get warmer day by day. Normally, when the heat from the sun warms our planet, some of the heat reflects back into space. But greenhouse gases act like a big sheet, trapping some extra heat in it. This extra heat can cause all sorts of problems for our planet; and the plants, animals and people who live here. Our glaciers and snow are melting faster. Our oceans are getting higher, and warmer. And our weather is becoming more extreme; with more heatwaves, harsh winters, prolonged summers, heavy rainfalls and strong hurricanes.

 

 Luckily, many countries around the world are working together to fight climate change. And there is a lot of easy steps you and I can take to help too. Like reusing, reducing and recycling things instead of throwing them out; instead of driving, ride your bike or take the bus; use less electricity; and eat homegrown vegetables and fruits if possible. You, I in fact everyone can make a difference at their level to fight climate change for our future generations.