Introduction
Climate change represents one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century, with profound implications for environmental, social, and economic systems globally. As a student exploring this critical topic, this essay seeks to examine the primary causes of climate change, focusing on human activities and natural processes, and to evaluate its far-reaching effects on ecosystems and human societies. The discussion will highlight the interplay between greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and global temperature rises, while also considering the consequences for weather patterns, biodiversity, and human livelihoods. By drawing on credible academic sources, this essay aims to provide a sound understanding of the issue, demonstrating its complexity and the urgency of addressing it.
Causes of Climate Change
The principal driver of climate change is the increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). These gases trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a ‘greenhouse effect’ that warms the planet. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels for energy, transportation, and industry, account for approximately 75% of global CO2 emissions since the mid-20th century (IPCC, 2014). Indeed, industrialisation and population growth have intensified reliance on coal, oil, and gas, exacerbating atmospheric GHG concentrations.
Additionally, deforestation significantly contributes to climate change by reducing the planet’s capacity to absorb CO2. Forests act as carbon sinks, but their destruction—often for agriculture or urbanisation—releases stored carbon into the atmosphere. A report by the UK government highlights that tropical deforestation alone accounts for about 10% of global emissions (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs [DEFRA], 2020). Furthermore, agricultural practices, including livestock farming, generate substantial methane emissions, a gas with a warming potential over 25 times greater than CO2 over a 100-year period (Smith et al., 2014). These findings underscore the multifaceted human-driven causes of climate change, revealing a complex problem requiring diverse mitigation strategies.
Effects of Climate Change
The effects of climate change are both widespread and profound, impacting natural systems and human communities alike. One of the most visible consequences is the rise in global temperatures, which has led to more frequent and intense extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, storms, and floods. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that these events have direct implications for human health, with increased risks of heat-related illnesses and vector-borne diseases like malaria in warmer climates (WHO, 2021). In the UK, for instance, flooding events have become more common, disrupting infrastructure and livelihoods, particularly in coastal regions (DEFRA, 2020).
Moreover, climate change poses a severe threat to biodiversity. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns disrupt ecosystems, forcing species to migrate or adapt—often with limited success. The IPCC warns that up to 30% of species could face extinction if global warming exceeds 2°C above pre-industrial levels (IPCC, 2014). Coral reefs, for example, are particularly vulnerable to ocean warming and acidification, with significant losses already documented in areas like the Great Barrier Reef. Such ecological damage has cascading effects, undermining food security for communities dependent on marine resources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, climate change is driven by a combination of human-induced factors, including greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation, which have accelerated global warming at an unprecedented rate. The effects are far-reaching, manifesting as extreme weather, biodiversity loss, and threats to human health and livelihoods. This essay has demonstrated the interconnectedness of causes and effects, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue through coordinated global action. While the challenges are immense, understanding these dynamics provides a foundation for developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. Ultimately, tackling climate change requires not only technological innovation but also societal commitment to sustainable practices—a responsibility that falls on policymakers, industries, and individuals alike.
References
- Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). (2020) Climate Change Explained: Causes, Effects and Solutions. UK Government.
- Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). (2014) Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report. IPCC.
- Smith, P., Bustamante, M., Ahammad, H., et al. (2014) Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use (AFOLU). In: Climate Change 2014: Mitigation of Climate Change. Cambridge University Press.
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2021) Climate Change and Health. WHO.
