Climate change refers to the long-term shifts in temperature, precipitation, and other elements of Earth's climate system. It is driven by both natural processes and human activities, with the latter playing a significant role. Since the Industrial Revolution, human activities—such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrialization—have emitted vast quantities of greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere, disrupting the Earth's climate.
The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in the atmosphere trap heat from the sun, maintaining Earth's temperature within a range that supports life. Key greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚) from vehicles and factories, and methane (CHâ‚„), produced by agriculture, decomposing organic materials, and natural gas extraction.
While these gases are crucial for making the planet habitable, excessive emissions intensify the greenhouse effect, trapping more heat and raising global temperatures—a phenomenon known as global warming. As a result, we experience more severe weather events, rising sea levels, and disrupted ecosystems.
According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), greenhouse gases act like a thermal blanket. They allow sunlight to pass through the atmosphere and reach Earth's surface, but they trap some of the heat that radiates back into space. This natural process keeps the planet warm enough to support life. However, human activities have caused an imbalance by increasing greenhouse gas concentrations, leading to higher global temperatures and more extreme climate events.
Illustration by by Yadav Prasad Joshi
As of January 2025, the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles County has burned over 23,000 acres, resulting in the loss of at least 25 lives and the destruction of around 12,000 structures. The fire's intensity and rapid spread are linked to climate change, which has increased the frequency and severity of extreme weather events like prolonged droughts and high temperatures. The greenhouse effect, caused by elevated levels of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, traps more heat, leading to hotter and drier conditions that fuel wildfires. The rising occurrence of such fires is one of the many impacts of climate change, which also encompasses rising sea levels, disrupted weather patterns, and the loss of biodiversity. This situation underscores the urgent need for global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and implement climate adaptation strategies.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reports that rising temperatures are causing more frequent heatwaves, placing stress on agriculture, livestock, and human health. Erratic rainfall patterns lead to prolonged droughts, exacerbating food insecurity, while excessive rains cause floods that damage infrastructure and displace communities.
Warmer climates are also expanding the range of diseases like malaria and cholera, increasing health risks. Coastal regions are grappling with rising sea levels, leading to land loss and displacement, further straining resources and exacerbating conflicts.
Tackling climate change requires a two-pronged approach: reducing emissions and enhancing the planet's capacity to remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.
Photo by markus spiske: Pexels
Reducing Greenhouse gas emissions can be achieved by transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal power, promoting energy efficiency, adopting sustainable agricultural practices, and protecting forests and ecosystems. Government regulations and policies also play a crucial role in driving emission reductions and encouraging sustainable practices.
Adaptation strategies are equally vital, especially for vulnerable regions like Africa. Strengthening infrastructure, enhancing disaster preparedness, and investing in sustainable water and land management can help communities withstand climate impacts.
While essential for life, human activity has intensified the greenhouse effect, leading to alarming climate disruptions. The path forward demands collective action—transitioning to renewable energy, conserving ecosystems, and adopting sustainable practices. Governments, businesses, and individuals must work together to mitigate emissions and adapt to the challenges ahead.
The urgency to act cannot be overstated. Every effort made today will shape the planet's future. By prioritizing sustainability and climate resilience, we can ensure a thriving world for future generations.