What's it all about?
The basics...
What is climate change?
'Climate change' generally refers to a long-term change (usually an increase) in global temperatures. Since the beginning of the last century, the average global temperature has risen by 0.75 degrees, and over the coming decades the world could see a further rise in average temperature of up to 4 degrees, with some regions of the world experiencing temperature rises of as much as 16 degrees.
Climate change doesn't just cause temperatures to rise (indeed in some places temperatures have fallen), scientists also believe that climate change is causing an increase in the frequency and severity of natural disasters.
What causes climate change?
The causes of climate change is a complicated and often contentious topic. However, there is strong evidence that natural causes (e.g. variations in output from the sun) can't explain our changing climate alone. Instead, it is increasinly believed that the activities and lifestyles of the earth's human population are causing the changes.
To find out more about climate change, why not watch this video from the Met Office:
Video source www.metoffice.gov.uk/climate-change/guide/what-is-it
Climate change and poverty
Despite contributing little to global warming, it is the most vulnerable people that already suffer the most from the consequences of climate change.
Read moreClimate change challenging development
Climate change is having a severe effect on our chances of achieving the Millennium Development goals, set by the United Nations in 2000
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p.linknote { font-size:90%; } For more resources and information about climate change, why not have a browse of one of the following links: General The Guardian newspaper's "Everything you need to know about climate change" interactive guide is a great place to go for ...
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Our approach
Climate change is a complicated issue, with many different causes and effects varying from country to country and continent to continent. As such, Practical Action employs a multi-faceted approach to overcoming climate change. We go beyond recognising the problem. For Practical Action it&r...
Read moreWhy should I care?
Climate change is personal - it's about women, men and children struggling to survive through no fault of their own. But it's not just about recognising the problem. For Practical Action it's also about supporting the solutions. Solutions that already exist.
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