Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing our planet today. It refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial emissions. These actions increase the concentration of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.

**Causes of Climate Change:**

1. **Burning Fossil Fuels**: Power plants, vehicles, and factories release massive amounts of CO₂.

2. **Deforestation**: Trees absorb carbon dioxide; cutting them down limits nature’s ability to regulate carbon.

3. **Agricultural Practices**: Livestock farming emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

4. **Industrial Activities**: Factories emit various pollutants, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

**Effects of Climate Change:**

* **Rising Temperatures**: Global temperatures have risen significantly in the past century.

* **Melting Ice Caps & Rising Sea Levels**: Polar ice is melting, threatening coastal cities.

* **Extreme Weather**: Heatwaves, droughts, floods, and hurricanes have become more frequent and severe.

* **Threats to Wildlife**: Habitats are being destroyed, endangering countless species.

* **Impact on Human Health**: Heat-related illnesses, water shortages, and food insecurity are on the rise.

**What Can We Do?**

1. **Reduce, Reuse, Recycle**: Cut down on waste and use resources wisely.

2. **Switch to Renewable Energy**: Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power reduce carbon emissions.

3. **Plant Trees**: They absorb CO₂ and provide oxygen.

4. **Use Public Transport**: Fewer vehicles mean less pollution.

5. **Raise Awareness**: Educating others about climate change helps build collective action.

**Conclusion:**

Climate change is not a distant threat—it is happening now. Every action counts. Governments, industries, and individuals must work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our planet for future generations. It’s not too late to make a difference, but the time to act is now.

By Avika Chugh