Climate change generally refers to the change in the climate of an atmosphere. In the current context, this refers to the global warming that has been occurring since the middle of the 20th century. According to verifiable scientific findings, this change is "anthropogenically caused". This is also referred to as man-made climate change. The main causes of climate change are direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions (carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, methane, water vapour) and their effect on the influence of solar radiation on the earth. In our article "Does climate change exist?" we commented on the arguments of so-called climate change sceptics.
Climate change is recognised worldwide by states, alliances and expert bodies as one of the greatest risks to global peace and human prosperity. The complex interrelationships of natural systems, which are the basis of life for human societies, make it difficult to assess the intrinsic risk. In line with the precautionary principle, consistent measures should be taken to minimise the emission of greenhouse gases. The objective of the "Paris Climate Agreement" ratified in 2015 commits the international community to the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C compared to pre-industrial levels.
« Zurück zum Glossar
