It's true; climate change is real. Year-round, the weather hasn't been the same because the Earth is warming. These changes in the temperature can mean a large and dangerous shift in the climate. Many places across the globe have been experiencing changes in rainfall, resulting in more floods and droughts. As a result of this, there are more frequent and intense heat waves. It's very obvious that humans are the main responsibility. For nearly a century, we have been burning fossil fuels to produce our energy. As a result, we are releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the air. These gases act as a blanket that traps heat in our atmosphere.

One example of climate change is the rise of sea levels. Scientific research shows that sea levels have been rising at a rate of 0.14 inches every year since the early 1990s. That's nearly four inches over the past 30 years! When the temperature rises, water absorbs heat, therefore making it expand. In cities by the coast, like Venice, Italy, they are starting to sink. Venice has been submerging at a rate of about two millimeters a year. It may not seem like a lot, but it's having a huge impact on the city. Venice isn't the only place being affected by climate change. Rising sea levels are swallowing entire islands. Recently, five islands in the Pacific Ocean were consumed by the growing sea levels. Who knows what part of the world will be underwater next?

Since snow and ice on this planet are melting at such a rapid pace, the increase in heat is altering snow and ice-covered areas. It's not only glaciers that are being affected by climate change but mountains too. For example, the Alps has increased in temperature by 1.5 degrees Celcius over the past century. The higher temperature is causing the permafrost layers of the Alps to melt. And it's not just the Alps being affected! Climate change is causing cold areas all over the planet to have a decrease in snow coverage. These cold layers of ice and snow are important because they impact air temperatures, sea levels, ocean currents, and storm patterns.

Some of the effects caused by global warming are irreversible. That's why if we don't make a change now, our planet isn't going to be around for much longer. These drastic changes from climate change will continue to affect the Earth. You may ask yourself, "What can I do about it?" Simple changes around your house, work, and school can have a positive impact on the planet. Easy activities like recycling and using less energy will not only help Earth, but it can also save you money. Let's help make this planet great for us and the following generations.