and our Environment

Our weather is changing… …in some places it’s drier; …in some places it’s wetter; …in some places it’s windier; What’s going on? Could it be Climate Change?

The Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change

Pollution There are three ‘Greenhouse’ gases that are released into the atmosphere by pollution, these are:

Where do these gases come from?

Carbon ‘sinks’ Plants absorb Carbon Dioxide. By chopping down trees we cause this Carbon Dioxide to be released back into the atmosphere.

Where do these gases come from?

What might happen?

Ice caps melting Sea levels rising Melting ice caps might cause Flooding

Hotter, drier weather could cause Water Shortages Some parts of Britain could experience water shortages as our reservoirs get emptier. In some African countries more people will struggle to find enough water to drink and to water their crops.

Polar Bear Bumble Bee Turtle Hedgehog Ptarmigan Salmon Changing weather will make life difficult for a lot of Wildlife

Health Malaria could be found in southern Europe as the weather warms and mosquitoes can survive here. With hotter summers more people will suffer from heat stroke and heat exhaustion. In ,000 are thought to have died as a result of climate change.

Extreme Weather Flooding Hurricanes Strong winds

Climate Change The time to act is now…what could you do? Use less electricity – turn off unused lights, switch off your computer, don’t leave the TV on standby and use energy efficient light bulbs. Throw less rubbish away – remember the 3 Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Try having a waste-free packed lunch. Compost and recycle what you can.

Climate Change The time to act is now…what could you do? Think about the food you eat. Try to buy organic food and food that has been grown in Britain rather than transported from other countries. Try to buy food with little packaging. Try to walk, cycle or use public transport. If you have to travel by car, could you travel with someone else?