What is the Greenhouse Effect/Climate Change?

Climate change is probably the most significant environmental challenge facing us.

The Greenhouse Effect is a natural process, allowing life as we know it to exist on earth. Solar energy reaching earth’s surface is radiated back into the atmosphere. Much of this energy is trapped by ‘greenhouse’ gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and methane, warming earth and sustaining life.

So what’s the problem? Human activities since the industrial revolution have lead to increased accumulation of greenhouse gases. These gases have been released through the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. More greenhouse gases equals a warmer planet. Global temperatures are rising and we are already seeing changes in weather patterns, such as increased frequency of storms, floods, heat waves, gales & droughts. So, whilst it's true that climate change does occur naturally, most scientists are now agreed that the increased rate of change that we are now experiencing is due to human activities.

Our planet's climate is very complex and affected by many factors. New Scientist explain some of these factors and address some common climate myths and misconceptions in Climate Change: A Guide for the Perplexed.

Both positive and negative effects of climate change are already being felt throughout Worcestershire's economy, environment and society. Mitigation through reducing greenhouse gases is vital to reduce further climate change and adaptation to the unavoidable impacts is essential. Find out more about the expected changes in Worcestershire's climate and the potential impacts.

Climate change is already happening and further change is inevitable. The extremity of change is expected to depend on future levels of emissions of climate change gases. The more we do now to reduce emissions, the less extreme the expected impact.