Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. These shifts can be natural, due to changes in the sun’s activity or volcanic eruptions. However, since the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver, primarily due to burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. This generates greenhouse gas emissions that trap the sun’s heat, raising temperatures.

The Earth’s surface temperature is now about 1.2°C warmer than in the late 1800s and warmer than at any time in the last 100,000 years.

The last decade (2011-2020) was the warmest on record, and each of the last four decades has been warmer than any previous one since 1850.

Keep fossil fuels in the ground. While more countries commit to net zero emissions by 2050, emissions must be halved by 2030 to keep warming below 1.5°C. Achieving this requires significant declines in coal, oil, and gas use.

Invest in renewable energy. Switch to sustainable transport. Improve energy efficiency in homes. Protect forests and oceans. Reduce consumption and plastic use. Strong international cooperation is key.