Climate Change and Carbon Footprint Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the definitions, causes, consequences, and personal management of climate change and carbon footprints based on the lecture material.

Climate change

Long-term changes in weather patterns, such as temperature, rainfall, and wind, caused mainly by human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation.

Causes of climate change

Human activities including the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial pollution that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Greenhouse gases

Gases such as $CO_{2}$ (carbon dioxide), methane, nitrous oxide, and water vapour that trap heat in the atmosphere.

Effects of climate change

More frequent floods, droughts, melting of glaciers, rising sea levels, and loss of biodiversity.

Carbon footprint

The total amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere as a result of human activities such as energy use, transportation, or the production of goods and services.

Sustainable actions for transport

Walking or using a cycle (low impact) versus using private cars (high impact) or taking flights more than twice a year (very high impact).

Electricity conservation habits

Always switching off electrical appliances like lights and fans when not in use to maintain a low impact on the environment.

Judicious water use

Using limited amounts of water, such as just one bucket for bathing, to minimize environmental impact.

Collective efforts for mitigation

Reducing carbon footprints, using renewable energy, protecting forests, and adopting sustainable lifestyles to shape a healthier future.

Impact on human populations

Climate change affects all sections of the population, including specifically mentioned impacts on the health, agriculture, and livelihoods of women and children.