Abstract

One of the most persistent global challenges of 21st century is climate change. Its profound impacts on the environment, biodiversity, and human societies are becoming increasingly evident. This chapter discusses the root causes of the climate change which consisting of release of greenhouse gases and deforestation, and explores its wide-ranging effects on biological ecosystems and human beings. Intensifying earth’s temperature, life-threatening changes in weather, demolition of habitat, and ocean acidification are altering the Earth’s balance, posing threats to species survival and human wellbeing. The chapter also accentuates the consequences of changes in climate for agriculture, water resources, health, and migration, while discussing mitigation and adaptation strategies essential for addressing the crisis. Immediate action is required to curb emissions, build resilience, and adapt to the inevitable variations that are already proceeding.