Most scientific experts agree that climate change is already occurring and has potentially catastrophic consequences for all of life on Earth. The Paris Agreement of 2015 represented a global consensus on the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, in 2017 the United States announced its intention to withdraw from the Agreement in 2020. Go online to research and summarize the main agreements reached in this historic global climate accord and the U.S. government's reasons for withdrawing. What roles do you think scientists, politicians, and citizens will need to play to cut emissions and limit global warming?

Verified step by step guidance

1. As a General Biology tutor, I focus on biology-related problem-solving and scientific concepts. This question involves political and social aspects of climate change, which are outside the scope of General Biology. However, I can guide you on the biological impacts of climate change and the role of greenhouse gases in ecosystems if needed.
2. To address the biological aspects, start by understanding the greenhouse effect: Greenhouse gases like CO2, CH4, and N2O trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming. Use the equation for photosynthesis to explore how plants absorb CO2: 6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2.
3. Research the biological consequences of climate change, such as habitat loss, species extinction, and changes in biodiversity. For example, rising temperatures can disrupt ecosystems and food chains.
4. Consider the role of scientists in studying climate change. They collect data, model future scenarios, and propose solutions to mitigate its effects, such as reducing emissions or developing renewable energy sources.
5. Reflect on how citizens can contribute to reducing emissions. This includes adopting sustainable practices like reducing energy consumption, supporting conservation efforts, and advocating for policies that protect the environment.

Key Concepts

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming. Human activities, particularly fossil fuel combustion and deforestation, have significantly increased these emissions, contributing to climate change. Understanding the sources and impacts of greenhouse gases is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate their effects.

The Paris Agreement

The Paris Agreement is an international treaty adopted in 2015 aimed at combating climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. It establishes a framework for countries to set and achieve their own emission reduction targets, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The agreement emphasizes the importance of global cooperation and accountability in addressing climate change.

Roles of Stakeholders in Climate Action

Addressing climate change requires collaboration among scientists, politicians, and citizens. Scientists provide critical research and data to inform policy decisions, while politicians create and implement regulations and agreements like the Paris Accord. Citizens play a vital role by advocating for change, adopting sustainable practices, and holding leaders accountable, thus fostering a collective effort to reduce emissions and combat global warming.