An introduction to climate change
What is climate change?
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. There is clear scientific consensus that human activities are currently responsible for our changing climate. Scientists have showed that humans are responsible for virtually all global heating over the last 200 years. Burning fossil fuels generates greenhouse gas emissions that act like a blanket wrapped around the Earth, trapping the sun’s heat and raising temperatures.
Where is it happening?
Climate change is impacting the entire world. In Ontario, we are seeing hotter summers, warmer winters, and more storms and heavy rain and wind events. In Halton Region, the weather has and will continue to become warmer, wetter and wilder.
When will it affect us?
Noticeable changes are already occurring with impacts to infrastructure, water supplies, human health, agricultural yields, and much more. Without global and local action these consequences will continue to increase in intensity and frequency.
Who is affected by climate change?
All living things on the planet will be affected by climate change through changes to their ways of life and habitats. The rapid rate at which climate change is progressing will make it difficult for humans, animals, and plants to adapt and respond to the changing conditions they face.