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Understanding the Basics of Climate Change

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12 views1 page

Understanding the Basics of Climate Change

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neraho1297
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We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Class Notes: Understanding the Basics of Climate Change Date: December 15, 2024 Instructor: Dr.

Sarah Mitchell

Lecture Overview Today’s lecture focused on the fundamentals of climate change, its causes, effects, and possible
mitigation strategies.

Key Topics Covered

1. What is Climate Change? Definition: Long-term changes in global or regional climate patterns, often linked to
increased levels of atmospheric greenhouse gases. Difference between weather (short-term) and climate (long-
term trends).
2. Causes of Climate Change Natural Causes:

Volcanic eruptions (emit CO₂). Solar radiation variations. Human Activities (Anthropogenic Causes):

Burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas). Deforestation (reduces carbon absorption). Industrial emissions and
agriculture (methane from livestock). 3. Greenhouse Effect How it works: Sunlight enters Earth's atmosphere. Some
heat is trapped by greenhouse gases (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O, H₂O vapor). Excessive trapping leads to global warming. Main
Contributors: Carbon dioxide: Released from fossil fuels. Methane: Produced by livestock and landfills. 4. Impacts of
Climate Change Environmental Impacts:

Rising global temperatures. Melting glaciers and polar ice caps; rising sea levels. Increased frequency of extreme
weather events (hurricanes, droughts). Social and Economic Impacts:

Food and water shortages. Displacement of communities due to sea-level rise. Economic costs of disaster recovery. 5.
Mitigation Strategies Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

Transition to renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro). Improved energy efficiency in industries and homes. Carbon
Sequestration:

Planting trees to absorb CO₂. Developing carbon capture and storage technologies. Policy and Global Agreements:

Paris Agreement: Limit global warming to below 2°C. Local initiatives promoting green living and sustainability.
Discussion Points Raised in Class Question: How do developing nations balance economic growth and sustainability?

Answer: International support and funding for green technologies can enable developing nations to grow sustainably
without excessive emissions.

Question: Are electric vehicles (EVs) truly eco-friendly?

Answer: EVs reduce emissions during operation but require sustainable battery production and recycling.

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