What is Climate Change?

The climate of the Earth is always changing. In the past it has altered as a result of natural causes. Nowadays, however, the term climate change is generally used when referring to changes in our climate which have been identified since the early part of the 1900's. The changes we've seen over recent years and those which are predicted over the next 80 years are thought to be mainly as a result of human behaviour rather than due to natural changes in the atmosphere.

The greenhouse effect is very important when we talk about climate change as it relates to the gases which keep the Earth warm. It is the extra greenhouse gases which humans have released which are thought to pose the strongest threat.

Impacts

Scientists in the UK and across the World are looking at the evidence of climate change and are also using computer models to come up with predictions for our future environment and weather.

However, the next stage of that work, which is just as important, is looking at the knock-on effects of potential changes.

Water is an enormous consideration. As we are likely to see an increase in precipitation and sea levels rise, does that mean an increase in flooding? What can we do to protect ourselves from that and how will it affect us financially?

Also, how will our health be affected by global warming, how will agricultural practices change, how will wildlife cope and what will the effects on coral be?

As for opportunities, well there will certainly be some positives of climate change as well as negatives so it is worth us considering those too.


Adaptation

The list of things we need to think about which will be affected by climate change is endless. In this section we give you a few examples of how we will need to change the way we live in order to cope with changes to our climate.

The regular use of renewable energy is becoming increasingly popular. Have a look at the possibilities for alternative energy sources, including solar power , wind power, geothermal,water power and even nuclear energy.

Play our game - I´m alright Jack - to influence his environment. You get to make choices at several stages in his life and can even decide how his house should be built.

What else can you do to help adapt to climate change and what can you do to help slow it down? There are many things we can all do at home. There are a host of ideas in Life at Home.

Buildings in the south east of the UK are going to have to be constructed like those in Scotland if weather predictions are correct. See what needs to be considered to build a house sturdy enough for the more severe weather.