Climate change refers to long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns. These changes can be natural or human-induced. Natural factors that can cause climate change include variations in the Earth's orbit, solar radiation, and volcanic eruptions. Human activities that can contribute to climate change include the burning of fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases trap heat, leading to an increase in global temperatures.

The effects of climate change are already being felt around the world. These effects include rising sea levels, more frequent and severe heat waves, changes in precipitation patterns, and the loss of biodiversity. Climate change is also expected to have a significant impact on human health, food security, and economic development.