‘Climate Change’ or ‘Global Warming’ represents a change in global or regional climate patterns. It has been attributed to the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
It is universally agreed by most scientists that the main cause of global warming is the human expansion of the ‘Greenhouse Effect’. Human activities across the globe are changing the natural greenhouse. The burning of fossil fuels like coal and oil have increased the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide. the consequences of changing the natural greenhouse are not easy to accurately predict. However there are a number of possible effects such as the excessive heating and cooling of certain regions. The heating of regions such at the north and south pole will result in the melting of ice capes and increase sea levels.
Despite the immense research and evidence there is still debate from some as to the existence of the issue.
Debate?
Many faces in the media, have openly argued against the existence of Climate change. Most famous of which being US President Donald Trump. He has on the record stated that he believes Climate Change is a Hoax created by the Chinese.
Since the late 19th Century the average surface temperature of the planet has risen by around 0.9 degrees Celsius. Research states that most warming has occurred over the last 35 years and the 5 hottest temperatures being since 2010. So it seems almost comical to suggest that the topic could be a Hoax. However it’s true that the leader of one of the top world powers denies its existence entirely. even with compelling statistics such as 2016 being the hottest year on record.
There are articles exploring the ways in which different countries around the world tackle their own levels of pollution.
The European Commission has expanded its support for clean technology development by awarding grant agreements to six additional projects under the Innovation Fund 2023 general call for Net-Zero Technologies (IF23 Call).
The UK Government revealed at the COP29 summit that they will be contributing £239 million in a bid to try and help forest-rich nations such as Colombia and Indonesia.
Maider Etxebarria, the Mayor of Vitoria-Gasteiz and a Member of ICLEI Europe’s Regional Executive Committee, discusses Vitoria-Gasteiz’s strategy for leveraging nature-based solutions for urban resilience.
At the ongoing COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, the UK Space Agency, in its role as Chair of the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS), delivered an important statement showing the importance of satellite data in monitoring and addressing climate change.
In June 2024, Denmark stepped up its climate efforts by launching a Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Fund, providing DKK 28.3 billion (about €3.8 billion) over the next 16 years to support the capture, transport, and storage of CO2.
Cornwall is emerging as a global centre for innovation and sustainability. The county is at the forefront of addressing critical global challenges, from climate change and human health to securing a sustainable supply of critical minerals.
Cultural heritage is an integral part of urban areas as an expression of their social, economic, and environmental development. Here, GERICS explain how they can help.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has issued an assessment ahead of COP29, showing significant challenges in meeting global renewable energy targets set at COP28.
The WWF's Living Planet Report 2024 highlights global wildlife decline, revealing a 73% average decrease in monitored populations over the past 50 years.
The 10th European Conference on Sustainable Cities and Towns (ESCT) sets the stage for stronger cooperation between the EU, national and local level to fast track Europe’s transition to climate neutrality.
A study led by the University of Arizona has revealed connections between Earth's last ice age and future climate patterns, particularly concerning the El Niño phenomenon.
