‘Climate change’ is a term which has been incessantly bandied around in recent times, but few of us know exactly what it means.
If you asked the average person in the street, ‘What’s the difference between climate change and global warming?’ their response would probably begin with a long pause and a frown.
Here at GreenASAP, we like to set you straight with the basic facts.
‘Climate change’ generally refers to an alteration in regional or global climate as a result of the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2). Mankind’s frequent use of non-renewable fossil fuels (such as oil, coal and gas) has significantly contributed to the pollution of our air with CO2 emissions. Linked to this alteration in climate, scientists investigating during the twentieth century highlighted the long-term gradual increase in the temperature of the earth’s atmosphere and oceans. This process is now known as ‘global warming’. Although many scientists still do not agree on the predicted results of global warming, it is thought the possible effects could include; rising sea levels resulting in flooding, decrease in snow cover in the Northern Hemisphere, and an increase in the frequency of some extreme weather types (such as cyclones and tsunamis).
Reports also indicate that the global surface temperature is likely to rise a further 1.1 to 6.4 °C (2.0 to 11.5 °F) during the twenty-first century alone. All this certainly gives a new meaning to the phrase ‘saving the planet’. Check out our energy saving tips to see how you can help in the fight against environmental destruction.
Have you ever wondered how climate change is changing our lives?
GreenASAP have teamed up with CO2 Now to allow everyone to see how we are affecting the environment.
Rising CO2 levels within the Earth’s atmosphere accelerate both atmospheric CO2 and climate change. Many climate scientists say we have years, not decades, to stabilize CO2 and other greenhouse gases.
How is the UK’s climate changing?
Average temperatures have increased by 0.7°C in the UK since 1659. Summers have become hotter and drier; winters milder and wetter.
Why is climate change so serious?
Changes as small as a 2°C global temperature rise will have significant effects such as droughts and heavy rainfall. Communities across the UK may struggle to cope with the effects of warmer summers and wetter winters. That’s why so much effort is being made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to stop the most damaging climate change.
We all have a responsibility to contribute to change before it is to late. Put simply, the situation is too grave for us to ignore it. Everyone can contribute to change. No matter how small the input, the combined effort will bring the climate crisis back into check and ensure the longevity of Earth for future generations. At GreenASAP we want to facilitate change by giving consumers access to green advice and choices and to act as a catalyst to change.
