Global warming refers to the ongoing rise in Earth's average temperature, primarily driven by human activities that release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing the planet to warm significantly. 

Causes: The primary cause of global warming is the burning of fossil fuels for energy, which releases large amounts of carbon dioxide when combusted. Other contributing factors include deforestation, industrial processes, and agriculture, all of which add to the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. 

Effects: Rising temperatures are causing a range of severe impacts on the planet, including more frequent and intense heatwaves, altered weather patterns with extreme droughts and floods, rising sea levels due to melting glaciers, and disruptions to ecosystems impacting biodiversity. 

Consequences: These changes pose a significant threat to human populations, potentially leading to food insecurity, displacement due to rising sea levels, and increased risk of natural disasters. 

Solutions: To mitigate global warming, urgent action is required to transition to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, promote sustainable practices in agriculture and industry, and implement policies to curb greenhouse gas emissions. 

Key points to remember:

Global warming is a scientific consensus, with overwhelming evidence supporting the link between human activity and rising temperatures. 

Addressing global warming requires international cooperation and collective efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

Individual actions like energy conservation, responsible consumption, and supporting sustainable businesses can also contribute to mitigating climate change.