Answering student's most asked questions on climate change

Is Climate Change Natural?

Yes, to an extent. The planet's temperature and climate has always fluctuated over time, just not at the rate it is now. You might hear people say that it's a natural phenomenon and humans have little impact on the climate, which is not entirely true. As you can see by the graph below, since the agricultural revolution began (near the end of the 18th century), greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere have increased leading to a spike in global temperatures. 

The 'Hockey stick' graph from the IPCC's Third report (2001): Variations of the Earth's surface temperature over the last 1000 years. 

Before humans began using fossil fuels, naturally occurring greenhouse gases contributed to the Earth's habitability. Without them, the average temperature of the world would be below freezing. 

The main greenhouse gas you've probably heard of is Carbon Dioxide or CO2. The levels of CO2 are now at their highest in at least 3 million years. While they only account for 0.04% of the atmosphere, that amounts to billions upon billions of tonnes of heat-trapping gas. 

Is it global warming or climate change?

Global warming is an element of climate change, as climate change includes a range of different aspects that influences the worlds atmosphere. Some climate change sceptics might say that global warming has been changed to climate change to fit an 'agenda', yet climate change models (going back 30/40 years), shows that it isn't just the warming of the earth. The consequences include more erratic and extreme weathers, for example an increase in hurricanes and flooding. 


How does global warming affect UK? 

When living in the UK, hearing the words 'global warming' might not sound too bad. Imagine this, the next sunshine holiday destination could be Blackpool!



However, unfortunately for everyone, this may not be realistic. Using data collected from the MetOffice, the UK can expect to have heavier rainfall and warmer winters. Although summers will become warmer, it is estimated that they will become 60% drier in 50 years time. Predictions also show that flooding will threaten parts of the UK, particularly low-lying and coastal towns - which might affect our holiday plans to Blackpool. 

Can we actually do anything about it? 

Yes, and luckily for you I will be posting "a list of realistic climate change solutions" blog that can help you navigate through the ambiguity of misinformation.




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