MEVE 019: Unit 02 - Climate Change

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 UNIT 2: CLIMATE CHANGE

2.1 Introduction

Climate change is no longer a future threat—it is a present reality. Driven primarily by human activities, climate change has led to a series of environmental, economic, and social disruptions across the globe. From melting glaciers and rising sea levels to increased frequency of extreme weather events, the effects are visible and alarming. This unit explores the meaning, causes, extent, and implications of climate change, both globally and for individual nations.

2.2 Objectives

After studying this unit, you should be able to:

·         Understand the concept and definition of climate change.

·         Identify the natural and anthropogenic causes of climate change.

·         Explain the major drivers and the current extent of climate change.

·         Discuss the impacts of climate change on the environment, economy, society, and human health.

·         Recognize the countries most responsible for climate change.

·         Evaluate policy implications and global development agendas aimed at mitigating climate change.

2.3 Definition of Climate Change

Climate change refers to a significant and lasting change in the statistical distribution of weather patterns over periods ranging from decades to millions of years. It may be a change in average weather conditions or a shift in the distribution of weather events.

According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), climate change refers specifically to changes caused directly or indirectly by human activity that alters the composition of the global atmosphere.

2.4 Causes of Climate Change

There are both natural and anthropogenic (human-induced) causes of climate change.

Natural Causes:

·         Volcanic eruptions (release of SO₂ and ash)

·         Changes in solar radiation

·         Orbital variations (Milankovitch cycles)

·         Ocean current fluctuations

Human-Induced Causes:

·         Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas)

·         Deforestation and land-use changes

·         Industrial emissions

·         Agriculture and livestock

·         Urbanization

2.5 Drivers of Climate Change

Climate change drivers are the factors or processes that directly or indirectly influence the Earth’s climate system.

Major Drivers:

·         Greenhouse Gas Emissions (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O, fluorinated gases)

·         Land Use Change (deforestation, agriculture)

·         Aerosols (particulates from industry and transport)

·         Urban Heat Island Effect (increased temperatures in cities)

·         Waste Generation (methane from landfills)

2.6 Extent of Climate Change

Recent decades have seen a rapid increase in global average temperatures. According to the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report:

·         The global surface temperature has increased by about 1.1°C since the pre-industrial era.

·         The past 7 years have been the warmest on record.

·         Sea levels have risen by over 20 cm since 1900.

·         Arctic ice is declining by approximately 13% per decade.

These trends are accelerating, with projections suggesting more intense and widespread consequences if greenhouse gas emissions are not curbed.

2.7 Impact of Climate Change

Climate change impacts every aspect of the Earth's systems—from the atmosphere to biodiversity, human societies, and economies.

2.7.1 Impacts on the Atmosphere

·         Altered precipitation patterns (more droughts and floods)

·         Shifts in wind patterns and jet streams

·         Increased frequency of tropical storms and hurricanes

2.7.2 Heat Waves and Extreme Temperatures

·         More intense and prolonged heatwaves

·         Increased cases of heat strokes and deaths

·         Reduced labor productivity, especially in outdoor jobs

2.7.3 Socioeconomic Impacts

·         Disruption in agriculture and food supply

·         Water scarcity in many regions

·         Loss of livelihoods (e.g., fisheries, tourism)

·         Climate-induced migration and displacement

·         Economic strain on poor and vulnerable communities

2.7.4 Climate Change Impacts on Health

·         Spread of vector-borne diseases (e.g., malaria, dengue)

·         Poor air quality leading to respiratory issues

·         Mental health effects due to climate-related disasters

·         Increased malnutrition due to food insecurity

2.8 Which Country Has Contributed the Most?

According to cumulative emissions data:

·         The United States has historically been the largest contributor of CO₂ emissions since the industrial revolution.

·         China is currently the largest annual emitter, followed by the USA, India, and the European Union.

·         Developed countries, with a small share of the global population, have contributed a disproportionately large share of total emissions.

·         Developing countries face the highest impacts despite lower per capita emissions.

This has given rise to the principle of "Common But Differentiated Responsibilities" (CBDR) in climate negotiations.

2.9 Policy Implications of Climate Change

Climate change requires immediate and coordinated policy responses at both national and international levels.

Key Policy Measures:

·         Adoption of clean and renewable energy sources

·         Promotion of climate-resilient agriculture

·         Implementation of carbon pricing and emissions trading

·         Support for climate adaptation and disaster preparedness

·         Strengthening international agreements like the Paris Agreement

2.10 Implications for Post-2015 Development Agenda

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reflect the interconnected nature of development and climate change.

·         SDG 13 specifically addresses Climate Action.

·         Climate change also affects goals related to poverty (SDG 1), hunger (SDG 2), health (SDG 3), clean water (SDG 6), and life on land and water (SDG 14 and 15).

·         A climate-resilient development pathway is essential for achieving long-term sustainability.

2.11 Let Us Sum Up

·         Climate change refers to long-term alterations in climate, largely driven by human activities.

·         Major causes include greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, industrialization, and land-use changes.

·         The impacts are wide-ranging—affecting weather, health, food systems, economies, and biodiversity.

·         Industrialized countries have historically contributed the most to emissions.

·         Global climate policies must emphasize equity, adaptation, and sustainable development to ensure a livable planet for future generations.

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