Climate Change & Renewable Energy
Introduction to Climate Change
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. While some
changes occur naturally, human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial
emissions, have significantly accelerated the process. The consequences include rising global
temperatures, melting ice caps, extreme weather events, and habitat loss.
Causes of Climate Change
1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) trap
heat in the atmosphere.
2. Deforestation: Cutting down forests reduces the Earth's ability to absorb CO2.
3. Industrial Activities: Factories and power plants release large amounts of CO2 and pollutants.
4. Agriculture: Livestock farming produces methane, while fertilizers release nitrous oxide.
5. Transportation: Vehicles burning gasoline and diesel contribute heavily to emissions.
Effects of Climate Change
1. Rising Temperatures: The global temperature has increased by more than 1°C since the
pre-industrial era.
2. Melting Ice and Rising Sea Levels: Polar ice caps and glaciers are melting, causing sea levels to
rise and flooding coastal areas.
3. Extreme Weather: More frequent and intense hurricanes, droughts, wildfires, and heatwaves are
linked to climate change.
4. Loss of Biodiversity: Many species face extinction due to changing habitats and extreme weather.
5. Human Health: Increased pollution and heat-related illnesses are major concerns.
Introduction to Renewable Energy
Renewable energy refers to energy sources that are naturally replenished and have minimal
environmental impact. Unlike fossil fuels, renewables help reduce carbon emissions and combat
climate change.
Types of Renewable Energy
1. Solar Energy: Capturing sunlight using solar panels to generate electricity.
Introduction to Climate Change
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. While some
changes occur naturally, human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial
emissions, have significantly accelerated the process. The consequences include rising global
temperatures, melting ice caps, extreme weather events, and habitat loss.
Causes of Climate Change
1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) trap
heat in the atmosphere.
2. Deforestation: Cutting down forests reduces the Earth's ability to absorb CO2.
3. Industrial Activities: Factories and power plants release large amounts of CO2 and pollutants.
4. Agriculture: Livestock farming produces methane, while fertilizers release nitrous oxide.
5. Transportation: Vehicles burning gasoline and diesel contribute heavily to emissions.
Effects of Climate Change
1. Rising Temperatures: The global temperature has increased by more than 1°C since the
pre-industrial era.
2. Melting Ice and Rising Sea Levels: Polar ice caps and glaciers are melting, causing sea levels to
rise and flooding coastal areas.
3. Extreme Weather: More frequent and intense hurricanes, droughts, wildfires, and heatwaves are
linked to climate change.
4. Loss of Biodiversity: Many species face extinction due to changing habitats and extreme weather.
5. Human Health: Increased pollution and heat-related illnesses are major concerns.
Introduction to Renewable Energy
Renewable energy refers to energy sources that are naturally replenished and have minimal
environmental impact. Unlike fossil fuels, renewables help reduce carbon emissions and combat
climate change.
Types of Renewable Energy
1. Solar Energy: Capturing sunlight using solar panels to generate electricity.