Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature, weather patterns, and other environmental factors on Earth. It is primarily driven by human activities, particularly the release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. The effects of climate change include:

1. Rising Temperatures: Global temperatures are increasing, leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves.

2. Melting Ice and Glaciers: Polar ice caps and glaciers are melting, contributing to rising sea levels.

3. Sea-Level Rise: As ice melts and seawater warms, sea levels are rising, threatening coastal areas and low-lying islands.

4. Extreme Weather: Climate change intensifies extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and heavy rainfall, leading to floods and wildfires.

5. Ocean Acidification: Increased CO2 in the atmosphere is absorbed by oceans, causing ocean acidification, which harms marine life.

6. Biodiversity Loss: Altered habitats and changing climate conditions can lead to shifts in ecosystems, impacting plant and animal species.

7. Health Impacts: Climate change can affect human health through heat-related illnesses, the spread of diseases, and food and water insecurity.

8. Economic Consequences: Climate change can lead to damage to infrastructure, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased disaster-related costs.

Mitigating and adapting to climate change are critical to minimize its impacts and protect the planet and its inhabitants. This often involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.