Climate change

Climate change is the result of natural and human factors, and has a range of effects.

Evidence for climate change from the beginning of the Quaternary period to the present day.

Possible causes of climate change:

• natural factors – orbital changes, volcanic activity and solar output
• human factors – use of fossil fuels, agriculture and deforestation.

Overview of the effects of climate change on people and the environment.

Managing climate change involves both mitigation (reducing causes) and adaptation (responding to change).

Managing climate change:

• mitigation – alternative energy production, carbon capture, planting trees, international agreements
• adaptation – change in agricultural systems, managing water supply, reducing risk from rising sea levels.