Global warming is a serious issue caused primarily by human activities. It refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature. This is mainly due to the emission of greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, preventing it from escaping back into space, leading to a warming effect known as the greenhouse effect.
The rise in global temperatures has significant consequences across the Earth's climate system. One of the most evident impacts is the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, resulting in rising sea levels. This makes coastal areas more vulnerable to flooding and erosion, endangering both human populations and ecosystems.
Additionally, global warming disrupts weather patterns, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events such as hurricanes, heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall. These events can have devastating effects on communities and the environment.