- Global Temperature Rise: The Earth’s average temperature has risen by about 1.2°C (2.2°F) since the late 19th century, with most of the warming occurring in the past few decades. This rapid rise is largely attributed to human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
- Extreme Weather Events: Climate change is intensifying extreme weather events, including heatwaves, hurricanes, floods, and droughts. These events not only threaten lives and livelihoods but also strain infrastructure and resources.
- Rising Sea Levels: Sea levels have risen by about 8 inches (20 cm) since the late 19th century, and the rate of rise is accelerating. Rising sea levels pose a grave threat to low-lying coastal areas, leading to increased flooding, erosion, and saltwater intrusion.
- Impacts on Agriculture: Climate change is affecting agricultural productivity and food security worldwide. Shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns, along with increased frequency of extreme weather events, pose challenges to crop yields, water availability, and pest management.
- Health Risks: Climate change exacerbates health risks, including heat-related illnesses, respiratory problems from air pollution, and the spread of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and marginalized communities, are particularly at risk.
- Biodiversity Loss: Climate change is a leading driver of biodiversity loss, with rising temperatures, habitat destruction, and changing ecosystems threatening species around the globe. Protecting biodiversity is essential for maintaining ecosystem services and preserving the web of life on Earth.
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