Back to: Environmental Biology 100 Level
Welcome to class!
Hello brilliant mind! Today, we will explore a very important and timely topic—Climate Change and Its Effects. Climate change is one of the biggest environmental issues in our world today, and it affects everything from the weather we experience to the food we eat. By the end of this lesson, you will clearly understand what climate change is, its causes, and its effects, especially in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
Human–Environment Interactions
Have you ever noticed that the rainy season sometimes comes later than expected, or the harmattan feels hotter than it used to? These changes in weather patterns are signs of climate change. Climate change simply refers to long-term changes in the Earth’s weather conditions, often caused by human activities like burning fuel, deforestation, and pollution.
What is Climate Change?
Climate change refers to significant and lasting changes in the average weather patterns of the Earth, caused by natural factors and, more recently, human activities.
Causes of Climate Change
Burning of Fossil Fuels – Petrol, diesel, and coal release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Deforestation – Cutting down trees reduces the planet’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide.
Industrial Activities – Factories release harmful gases into the air.
Agricultural Practices – Livestock and certain farming methods release methane, another powerful greenhouse gas.
Effects of Climate Change
Rising global temperatures (global warming).
Frequent and intense heatwaves.
Flooding in coastal and urban areas due to rising sea levels.
Droughts and desertification, especially in Northern Nigeria.
Reduced crop yield, affecting food supply.
Loss of biodiversity and wildlife.
How Climate Change Affects Nigeria
Prolonged droughts affecting farmers in states like Borno and Yobe.
Increased flooding in cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt due to heavy rainfall.
Erosion in coastal areas and farmlands.
Increased spread of diseases like malaria due to rising temperatures.
Solutions to Climate Change
Planting trees and restoring forests.
Using renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
Reducing car emissions by walking, cycling, or using public transport.
Recycling and reducing waste.
Supporting government policies on climate action.
Summary
- Climate change refers to long-term shifts in weather patterns, largely caused by human activities.
- Major causes include burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial activities.
- Effects range from global warming to drought, flooding, and food insecurity.
- Nigeria experiences floods, desertification, and erosion as a result of climate change.
- Solutions include tree planting, renewable energy use, and adopting sustainable lifestyles.
Evaluation
- What is climate change?
- Mention three causes of climate change.
- List three ways climate change affects Nigeria.
- Suggest two solutions to climate change.
You’ve done well today! Remember, you have the power to protect the environment by taking small but meaningful actions. Keep learning with Afrilearn—your bright future is secure!