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Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the planet – and one everyone can do something about. From recycling to offsetting emissions, and from turning the thermostat down to buying a more economical car, there are many steps you can take to help safeguard the future of the planet.
'Climate change' refers to shifts in the earth’s temperature over the last 100 years. Since 1900, the average temperature on the planet has increased by 0.74 degrees Celsius and the sea level around the UK has risen by about 10 cm. Further global rises are expected, as well as more extreme weather events like flooding and drought.
Individuals are responsible for about 40 per cent of emissions in the UK
There is now very strong evidence that significant global warming cannot be explained by natural causes alone. Humans are changing the climate with their actions, especially through emissions of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, which artificially warm the atmosphere of the earth.
The effects of climate change so far include rising temperatures, higher sea levels, and more frequent extreme weather events such as floods. All of these are expected to become more severe. However, actions by individuals have already helped the UK meet its targets for cutting emissions by 2010. Future effects of climate change can be influenced by what is done now.
Over a million people have visited the ACT ON CO2 carbon calculator since June 2007
Individuals are responsible for about 40 per cent of emissions in the UK, with energy use in the home, driving and air travel the biggest sources. Use the carbon calculator to work out how much carbon dioxide you create and find out simple, concrete ways to reduce your impact on the environment.
Isn’t the climate constantly changing? There’s no scientific evidence for climate change, is there? Isn’t it too late to make a difference? Confusion and myths about climate change are widespread. Explore some of the most common misconceptions, and the facts behind them.
The European Union (EU) has proposed that global temperature rises need to be limited to two degrees Celsius to avoid dangerous climate change. This can be achieved by cutting emissions, and there are many ways to do this.
People all over the UK have been working to tackle climate change. They have pledged to lower their own emissions and even decided to make their village, town or football team carbon neutral.
Try the ACT ON CO2 calculator and find out how you can help tackle climate change
