READING COMPREHENSION
What is Climate Change?
The climate of the Earth is always changing. In the past it has altered as a result of
natural causes. Nowadays, however, the term climate change is generally used when
referring to changes in our climate which have been identified since the early part of the
1900's. The changes we've seen over recent years and those which are predicted over the
next 80 years are thought to be mainly as a result of human behaviour rather than due to
natural changes in the atmosphere.
The greenhouse effect is very important when we talk about climate change as it relates
to the gases which keep the Earth warm. It is the extra greenhouse gases which humans
have released which are thought to pose the strongest threat.
Impacts
Scientists in the UK and across the World are looking at the evidence of climate change
and are also using computer models to come up with predictions for our future
environment and weather.However, the next stage of that work, which is just as
important, is looking at the knock-on effects of potential changes.
Water is an enormous consideration. As we are likely to see an increase in precipitation
and sea level rises, does that mean an increase in flooding? What can we do to protect
ourselves from that and how will it affect us financially?
Also, how will our health be affected by global warming, how will agricultural practices
change, how will wildlife cope and what will the effects on coral be?
As for opportunities, well there will certainly be some positives of climate change as
well as negatives so it is worth us considering those too.
Adaptation
The list of things we need to think about which will be affected by climate change is
endless. In this section we give you a few examples of how we will need to change the
way we live in order to cope with changes to our climate.
The regular use of renewable energy is becoming increasingly popular. Have a look at
the possibilities for alternative energy sources, including solar power, wind power,
geothermal, water power and even nuclear energy.
What else can you do to help adapt to climate change and what can you do to help slow
it down? There are many things we can all do at home.
Questions:
1- Explain what is the green house effect:
2- How will our health be affected by global warming? Find this information on the
web.
3- What opportunities will there be caused by global warming? Find this
information on the WEB.
4- Explain the alternative energy resources:
