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Environment and greener living
Climate change: a quick guide
Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the planet – and one everyone can do something about. From turning the thermostat down to buying a more economical car, there are many steps you can take to help safeguard the future of the planet.
What is climate change?
'Climate change' refers to changes in the earth’s temperature over the last 100 years. Since 1900, the average temperature on the planet has increased by 0.74 degrees Celsius and the UK's sea level has risen by about 10 centimetres. Further global rises are expected, as well as more extreme weather events like flooding and drought.
The causes of climate change
Individuals are responsible for about 40 per cent of UK emissions
There is now very strong evidence that significant global warming can't be explained by natural causes alone. Humans are changing the climate by their actions, especially through emissions of greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, which artificially warm the atmosphere of the earth.
The effects of climate change
The effects of climate change so far include rising temperatures, higher sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events like floods. All of these are expected to become more severe. However, actions by individuals have already helped the UK meet its targets for cutting emissions by 2010. Future effects of climate change can be influenced by what is done now.
Calculate your carbon footprint
Use the carbon calculator to find out your carbon footprint
Individuals are responsible for about 40 per cent of emissions in the UK. The biggest sources are energy use in the home, driving and air travel. Use the carbon calculator to work out how much carbon dioxide you create and find out simple ways to reduce your impact on the environment.
Challenging climate change myths
Isn’t the climate constantly changing? There’s no scientific evidence for climate change, is there? Isn’t it too late to make a difference? Confusion about climate change is widespread. Explore some of the most common misconceptions and the facts behind them.
What you can do about climate change
The European Union has proposed that global temperature rises need to be limited to two degrees Celsius to avoid dangerous climate change. This can be achieved by cutting emissions, and there are many ways you can help achieve this.
What’s being done about climate change
People all over the UK have been working to tackle climate change. They have pledged to lower their own emissions and even decided to make their village, town or football team carbon neutral.
In 2008 the UK passed the Climate Change Act to tackle the dangers of climate change.
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