Certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere act like a blanket, trapping heat and keeping the planet's surface warmer than it would be otherwise. This natural process is essential for supporting life on Earth. However, human activities, such as burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) and deforestation, have significantly increased the concentrations of these greenhouse gases, intensifying the natural greenhouse effect.

The increase in greenhouse gases has led to an enhanced greenhouse effect, resulting in global warming. This warming is reflected in rising average global temperatures. Since the late 19th century, the Earth's average surface temperature has risen by about 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2 degrees Fahrenheit).

Climate change can lead to shifts in weather patterns, including more frequent and intense heatwaves, droughts, flash flooding and storms. These changes can have profound effects on ecosystems, agriculture, water resources, and human settlements.

As temperatures rise, ice sheets and glaciers melt, causing sea levels to rise. Thermal expansion of seawater also contributes to this rise. Higher sea levels can lead to coastal erosion, increased flooding during storms, and the loss of habitable land. Global mean sea level has risen more than 8 inches (21 centimeters) since the 19th century.

The oceans absorb a significant portion of the excess CO2 in the atmosphere. This causes the oceans to become more acidic, which can harm marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs and shellfish, by affecting their ability to build and maintain their calcium carbonate structures.

Climate change can disrupt ecosystems and habitats, leading to shifts in species distributions and potential extinctions. Many species may struggle to adapt to rapidly changing conditions, impacting biodiversity and ecological balance.