Unit 9 - Global Change

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Synthetic compounds once used in refrigeration that deplete the ozone layer.

Montreal Protocol

International treaty to phase out ozone-depleting substances like CFCs.

Global Change

Planetary-scale alterations in Earth's climate, biogeochemical cycles, and ecosystems.

Global climate change

Long-term shifts in global temperatures and weather patterns driven by human activities.

Greenhouse effect

Atmospheric gases trap the Sun's heat, warming the planet's surface.

Greenhouse warming potential (GWP)

Measure of how much heat a greenhouse gas traps relative to CO2.

Ocean acidification

The ongoing decrease in Earth's ocean pH caused by CO2 absorption.

Kyoto Protocol

International treaty committing nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Paris Climate Agreement (Paris Climate Accord)

International treaty aiming to limit global warming to well below 2°C.

Endangered Species

Plant or animal species seriously at risk of extinction.

Lacey Act

US law banning trade in illegally sourced wildlife, fish, and plants.

Marine Mammal Protection Act

US legislation protecting marine mammals from hunting, harassment, and import.

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

International agreement ensuring wild flora and fauna trade does not threaten survival.