Climate Change: Earth Under Pressure
Scientists on international panels continue to announce new warnings about climate change, describing it as one of the most significant threats ever faced by humanity. The main reason for global warming is the greenhouse effect, caused when gases in the atmosphere trap heat and stop it from escaping into space. These gases include carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, which are released when we burn fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas. As a result, global temperatures continue to soar, breaking new records almost every year.
The effects of climate change can already be seen around the world. Ice sheets, glaciers, and icecaps are beginning to melt, and sea levels are rising. In many low-lying countries, people face the risk of floods, while other regions suffer from drought and desertification. These changes threaten food production and animal habitats, leading to a widespread environmental crisis.
To protect the planet, experts say we must reduce greenhouse gas emissions and switch to cleaner energy sources. Even small steps can help to lessen the damage — for example, recycling, saving electricity, or using public transport. People also need to understand how exposure to strong sunlight can damage health. The ozone layer, which absorbs dangerous ultra-violet radiation, has been weakened by gases like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), but global action has already started to repair it. These changes prove that if humans work together, we can still make a positive impact on our environment.
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Vocabulary match
Task 1 – Read the text and decide if these five statements are true or false.