What is Climate Change?

Climate change is the long-term change in climate (i.e. temperature, rainfall, extreme weather, etc.). Scientific studies indicate that most global warming in recent decades is due to the great concentration of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere, which are released mainly as a result of human activities.

Climate change has resulted in rising sea levels and extreme weather events such as super typhoons, more heavy rains, more intense heat and heat waves, and prolonged severe droughts, and consequently enormous losses in lives, livelihoods, properties, and the environment. Vulnerable countries, like the Philippines, bear the brunt of the impact of climate change.

The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) confirmed that 2015, 2016, and 2017 were the three warmest years on record 2016 still holds the global record, while 2017 has been warmest year without El Niño. 

Data from the United Kingdom’s Met Office showed that the rise in global average temperature in 2015 and 2016 had breached 1°C above pre-industrial levels (1850-1900 reference period). In a business-as-usual scenario, this could reach up to 4°C by 2050, leading towards potentially devastating consequences. Climate Change Impacts.