Climate change is one of the most significant challenges facing our planet today. It refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels.

When fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas are burned, they release greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun and cause what scientists call the "greenhouse effect," leading to global warming and climate change.

The impacts of climate change are widespread and increasingly severe. Rising global temperatures have led to melting ice caps and glaciers, causing sea levels to rise. This threatens coastal communities and small island nations with flooding and erosion. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and wildfires, have also become more frequent and intense.

Climate change affects ecosystems and biodiversity as well. Many plant and animal species are struggling to adapt to rapidly changing conditions, and some face extinction. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns also impact agriculture, potentially leading to food insecurity in various regions.

Addressing climate change requires global cooperation. The Paris Agreement, signed by nearly 200 countries, aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and implementing sustainable practices across sectors.

Individuals can also contribute to fighting climate change through actions like reducing energy consumption, using public transportation, adopting plant-based diets, and supporting environmental policies and organizations.