RAS Mains Paper-4 Test | Day 10

Climate change refers to significant, long-term changes in the global climate patterns, primarily driven by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. These activities release large quantities of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing the Earth’s temperature to rise. This phenomenon, known as global warming, leads to melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and more extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and floods.

The consequences of climate change are far-reaching, affecting not only the environment but also human societies and economies. As global temperatures rise, ecosystems are disrupted, leading to species extinction, loss of biodiversity, and altered agricultural productivity. Communities in coastal regions face the risk of displacement due to rising sea levels, while extreme weather patterns threaten food security and increase the likelihood of natural disasters. Vulnerable populations, particularly in developing countries, bear the brunt of these effects, despite contributing the least to global emissions.

Addressing climate change requires urgent and collective action. Governments, industries, and individuals must work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, and adopt sustainable practices. International agreements, like the Paris Agreement, aim to limit global temperature rise to below 2°C, but success depends on the commitment of all nations. By acting now, we can mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect the planet for future generations.