Global warming and climate change should not be confused because even though they are interrelated, they are not the same. Global warming refers to the increase in the earth’s temperature; this increase will lead to climate change and a lot of unwanted consequences.

The two main effects of global warming include the increase of the earth’s temperature by as much as 3° to 5° C and the rise of sea levels to a minimum of 25 meters by the year 2100.

Among the serious consequences that must be addressed include:

• Reduction of fresh water supply – the rising sea levels causes flooding to occur on coastlines. As sea-water reaches inland, the fresh water located here will decrease sharply.
• Endangered species will become extinct – rising temperatures forces the alteration of habitats and certain species may be forced out and become extinct.
• Vector-borne diseases can increase – the diseases that can be carried by insects, animals, and humans will have a wider range because of the warmer climate.
• Increase of extreme weather conditions – the number of hurricanes has increased significantly since 1975. In addition, changes in temperatures have also led to the increase, in terms of frequency and intensity, of other extreme conditions such as floods, draughts, tornadoes, and heat waves.

Sources that will let you know more about global warming and climate change include:

News Sources about Global Warming and Climate Change

New York Times: Global Warming

CNBC Global Warming Guide

US Environmental Protection Council: Climate Change

National Climate Data Center

Natural Resources Defense Council: Global Warming

Guide to Global Warming and Climate Change

Weather Questions

Time: 51 Things We Can Do To Save the Environment

Woods Hole Research Center: Warming of the Earth

Global Warming Guide

The Marshall Institute: Guide to Global Warming