3. What is climate change? Climate change is the result of changes in our weather patterns because of an increase in the Earth’s average temperature. This is caused by increases in greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. These gases soak up heat from the sun but instead of the heat leaving the Earth’s atmosphere, some of it is trapped, making the Earth warmer. Retrieved from http://www.climatechange.gov.au/en/climate-change.aspx
4. What causes climate change? Increase in greenhouse gases, as a result of an increase in human activity. Some of the activities undertaken: burning fossil fuels(ie coal) some types of farming activities cutting down trees and clearing land decomposition (breakdown) of food, plant wastes and sewerage production of goods and services.
5. Australia’s perspective In Australia, greenhouse gas emissions come primarily (70%) from the energy sector. Our biggest offenders are electricity generation, burning coal and road transport. Australia generates only 1.5% of total global greenhouse gas emissions. Australia is one of the world's biggest polluters on a per capita basis.
7. Are we really to blame? There are a large number of skeptics of climate change and global warming issue. However, there is scientific evidence that humans are causing climate change. Do a Google search to see differing views.
8. What are the effects of climate change? The Earth's temperature will keep rising. This will cause more heatwaves, longer droughts, more storms, stronger cyclones, higher sea levels and less usable water all over the world. (Black Saturday/Victorian bushfires, Cyclone Larry, Hurricane Katrina, severe hailstorms in Melbourne, winter heatwaves) Also affecting our wildlife, native plants and eco-systems and natural wonders
9. What are the effects of climate change? Argentina's Upsala Glacier Retrieved from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/spl/hi/picture_ gallery/05/sci _nat_how_the_ world_is_ changing/html/1.stm
10. Predictions ........ Best estimates are that by 2030 Australia will face: a further 1ºC of warming in temperatures up to 20% more months of drought up to 25% increase in days of very high or extreme fire danger increases in storm surges and severe weather events. Retrieved from http://www.climatechange.gov.au/climate-change/impacts.aspx
11. What can we do? Recycle – not only our rubbish, but also our toys, books and clothing Save energy – turn off power Conserve water resources Don’t use the car – take public transport, walk or ride a bicycle Plant a tree
13. Further information More information can be found at the following websites: http://www.climatechange.com.au/ This site has links to climate change blogs. Have a read of them and maybe post a comment. http://www.climatechange.gov.au/ Federal government website
