The climate is changing, and the impacts on the planet could be substantial. Due to burning fossil fuels such as coal, gas and oil and clearing forests we have dramatically increased the amount of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere and the temperatures are rising.

 

What the Effects are:

Climate Change and Your Health

When we burn fossil fuels, we create two main kinds of pollution: greenhouse gases and smog-causing pollutants. Smog has been linked to many health problems, from respiratory diseases to cancer.

Climate Change and Forests

Forests are threatened by climate change. Shorter, warmer winters mean that invasive species, such as the Asian longhorn beetle, are devastating trees. In addition, warmer and drier weather also increases the likelihood of forest fires which release carbon dioxide. Trees are important because they act as carbon sinks and extract carbon dioxide from the air.

Climate Change and Water

The Great Lakes make up 20 per cent of the world's fresh water supply. They are fed by thousands of smaller lakes, streams and wetlands. Warmer temperatures cause more of this water to evaporate, resulting in lower water levels and possible shortages.

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