Climate Change: A-Level Geography

We live in the Holocene epoch. But there have been many diverse periods in Earth's long history. Ice drilling is one method of telling us about the past. We can see natural fluctuations in Earth's climate over time.

Climate change impacts both the planet and all the creatures who live upon it. Climate change can destroy crops and ecosystems, can reduce worldwide health and even precipitate wars over dwindling resources.

There are a number of ways that humans can effect climate. Many of the technologies to blame are the oldest we have. Consider the impact of farming and deforestation on a global scale, as well as the impact of fossil fuels.

Is climate change a result of natural processes that have been in operation for millennia? Or, are the sudden global increases in temperature - especially in the last 40 years - directly connected to our increased population and fossil fuel reliance?

How should we respond to climate change. There are two main strategies - mitigation and adaptation. The former is concerned with finding ways to reduce human emissions. The latter aims to help those most affected by the calamity of change.

How have governments and large organisations come together to attempt to tackle climate change? Agreements such as the Kyoto Protocols and the Paris Accords are an effort of unite against the threat of catastrophe.

Take this quiz to see what you have learned about climate change. From concepts such as the Milankovitch cycles to the top carbon producing countries, this quiz will help you revise.