Climate change (1): causes + other info

Greenhouse effect

The process by which certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere trap heat and warm the Earth

Greenhouse gases + examples

Gases that trap heat in atmosphere and contribute to the greenhouse effect, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxides, water vapor, CFCs

Climate change

Long term shift in global and regional climate patterns.

Already happened since start. Natural events have been responsible for global periods of warming and cooling. However, today humans are responsible for much larger shifts.

What happened as a result of industrial revolution? Why? When and where happened?

In the 1800s in US and Europe the industrial revolution led to increased emissions of greenhouse gases, significantly contributing to climate change because of growing demand for fossil fuels for electricity, heat, transportation and manufacturing.

Causes of climate change: human causes

Causes of climate change: natural causes

Global commons

The Earth’s shared natural resources that are accessible to all, such as the atmosphere, oceans, biodiversity, Antarctica and outer space (which require collective management to address issues like climate change)

Why are global commons important?

Global commons are crucial because they provide essential resources and services that support life on Earth. Their preservation is vital for addressing global challenges like climate change and ensuring sustainable development.

Give me 3 reasons why it is difficult to protect our global commons

1. Overexploitation (Tragedy of the Commons) – Because shared resources belong to everyone and no single party is responsible for them, they often get overexploited for short term gains. Fisheries, for instance, suffer from overfishing because no one wants to be the first to limit their catch while others continue unrestricted exploitation.

   • Example: Overfishing in international waters—without strict oversight, species like bluefin tuna have been pushed to the brink due to excessive harvesting.

2. Weak Global Governance – Although international agreements exist, enforcement is difficult since no single body holds absolute authority.

   • Example: The Paris Agreement on climate change aims to limit global warming, but countries have varying levels of commitment, leading to continued high carbon emissions from some industrialized nations.

3. Economic and Political Conflicts – Nations prioritize economic interests, making it difficult to implement stringent environmental policies.

   • Example: The Amazon rainforest is vital for global oxygen production, but deforestation continues due to agricultural expansion, driven by economic necessities in Brazil.

4. Requires global cooperation and conflicting views may difficult this. Difficult to make nations collaborate.

5. Growing population = more demand

What is the tragedy of the commons?

The tragedy of the commons refers to a situation in which individuals, acting in their own self-interest, deplete shared resources, leading to negative consequences for the entire community. This concept illustrates the conflict between individual gain and collective sustainability.

Remember there are people who think that climate change is not real (climate change deniers) or think it is not their responsibility

Give me 3 reasons why climate change can be prevented

• Advancements in Renewable Energy – Clean energy technologies like solar, wind, and hydro power have become more efficient and affordable, making the shift away from fossil fuels easier than ever.

  • Example: Countries like Denmark and Costa Rica generate a significant portion of their electricity from renewable sources, showing that large-scale adoption is possible.

• Growing Public Awareness and Action – People around the world are demanding change, leading to stronger environmental policies, corporate responsibility, and sustainable practices.

  • Example: The rise of eco-conscious consumerism has pushed companies to adopt greener practices, such as reducing plastic waste and switching to sustainable production methods.

• Technological Innovation – Breakthroughs in climate-friendly solutions, from carbon capture to plant-based alternatives for food and materials, make it easier to reduce emissions without sacrificing modern conveniences.

  • Example: Electric vehicles are becoming more accessible, with major automakers investing heavily in green transportation options.

Give me 3 reasons why climate change cannot be prevented

• Dependence on Fossil Fuels – The global economy relies heavily on fossil fuels for energy, transportation, and industry. Transitioning to renewable energy sources requires significant investment, infrastructure changes, and political will.

  • Example: Many countries still rely on coal and oil for economic growth, making it difficult to phase out fossil fuels despite climate agreements.

• International Coordination Challenges – Climate change is a global issue that requires worldwide cooperation, but different nations have conflicting interests, making agreements difficult to enforce.

  • Example: The Paris Agreement set ambitious climate goals, yet some nations have struggled to meet their targets due to economic or political constraints.

• Economic and Social Resistance – Implementing sustainable policies can be costly and disruptive, leading to resistance from industries and populations that fear job losses or economic downturns.

  • Example: The push for electric vehicles faces challenges due to costs, infrastructure gaps, and opposition from traditional auto and oil industries.

Remember to mention any significant individuals like Greta Thumberg. What has she done?

She is an activist. She has raised awareness and inspired global action. She has started the Fridays for Future movement which inspired students worldwide to skip school on Fridays to protest climate inaction.

What is an UN organisation that is important on the subject of climate change? What does it do?

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is a Un organisation that looks at all the scientific evidence on the subject. It advises governments on the risks and puts forward ideas about dealing with the problems.

What has the IPCC claimed about the cause of global warming?

The IPCC claims that they are 95% sure that human being are causing global warming. The natural factors cannot be fully responsible for the extent of the changes happening now.

Another influential individual who has advocated for climate change?

Antinio Guterres who is the UN secretary general:
Strong Advocacy for Climate Action – Guterres has consistently pushed for urgent action to combat climate change, warning that the world is at a critical juncture.

• Example: In a recent speech, he stated, “We are playing Russian roulette with our planet” and urged leaders to take immediate steps to reduce emissions.

• Leadership in International Climate Agreements – He has been instrumental in promoting and enforcing agreements like the Paris Agreement, ensuring that nations commit to reducing carbon emissions.

  • Example: At COP29, he emphasized that “Climate finance is not charity, it's an investment” and called on the G20 nations to lead the charge in cutting emissions.

• Holding Polluters Accountable – Guterres has openly criticized fossil fuel industries and governments that fail to act, calling them the “Godfathers of climate chaos”.

  • Example: He has urged nations to transition to renewable energy, h

Why is the fact that Antonio Guterres is the UN secretary general important?

He holds significant influence so he:

• Shape Global Discussions – As the leader of the UN, he can set the agenda on climate change, ensuring it remains a top priority in international discussions.

  • Example: His speeches at UN climate conferences (such as COP meetings) push nations toward stronger commitments.

• Mobilize Countries and Organizations – He can encourage collaboration between nations, corporations, and environmental groups to drive change.

  • Example: His push for climate finance has led to agreements where wealthier nations support developing countries in green transitions.

• Pressure Governments and Industries – He publicly calls out those failing to act on climate change, using his platform to influence policies and corporate decisions.

  • Example: His criticism of fossil fuel investments has put pressure on companies to shift toward renewable energy sources.

Important point: governments may have more power but it is the individual’s responsibility to choose to use renewables, recycle, donate money to MGOs.