Global Warming

Global warming refers to the long-term rise in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels. It is characterized by an accelerated rate of change, uneven global impacts, positive feedback loops that amplify warming, and long-term persistence due to the prolonged atmospheric lifespan of greenhouse gases. Since the late 19th century, Earth's temperature has risen by approximately 1.1°C, with greenhouse gas concentrations reaching unprecedented levels. Key effects include melting ice, rising sea levels, and a threefold increase in climate-related disasters since 1980. Human-induced greenhouse gas emissions from energy production, deforestation, agriculture, and industrial activities are the primary drivers. The impacts are wide-ranging: disruptions to agriculture and food security, infrastructure damage from extreme weather, rising energy demands, health risks, displacement due to rising sea levels, and intensified natural disasters.