What is the greenhouse effect and climate change?

Further information

The greenhouse effect is explained in the following diagram:

The main greenhouse gases that are responsible for the greenhouse effect are carbon dioxide, methane, water vapour and nitrous oxide. The greenhouse effect is a natural effect - without it the temperature on earth would be around -18^oC and life would not exist as we know it.

So if the Greenhouse Effect is a natural effect, then what’s the problem?

The increased use of fossil fuels and other human activities have increased the quantity of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This means that more infra-red radiation is absorbed, causing an increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s surface.

But haven’t temperatures been higher in the past?

Temperatures have been higher in the distant past but not in the history of human life on the planet. The concentration of carbon dioxide is now higher than at any point in the last 650,000 years. Furthermore, the extent of warming over the last fifty years has never been seen over such a short period of time.

Shouldn’t we welcome an increase in average temperatures in the UK?

A significant rise in average summer temperatures could become uncomfortable for many UK residents. Furthermore, a rise in average temperatures will be accompanied by an increase in extreme weather events in the UK, including floods, storms and droughts.

What’s causing the changes in climate?

The majority of the world’s scientists are convinced that humans are influencing the climate. Research has shown that recent changes in temperature can only be explained by including both natural and human activities. Regardless of the cause, extremes of weather are being observed more frequently and it is important to act now to reduce future impacts.

How will the climate change in Norfolk?

The following climatic changes are predicted for the future in Norfolk:

The magnitude of these changes will vary according to measures that we take now and in the next few years to reduce our emissions of carbon dioxide.

What impacts will these changes have in Norfolk?

The characteristics of Norfolk make it particularly vulnerable to climatic impacts. Norfolk is a low-lying county with an extensive coastline and a growing population. Flooding and water shortages could have serious impacts on the homes, livelihoods and well-being of residents and businesses within South Norfolk. At the same time, climate change could bring a number of opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, low carbon technology, agriculture, local food and recreation.

I’m only one person, what difference can I make?

It is not always easy to relate the issue of climate change and global warming to our day-to-day lives within South Norfolk. However, it is at a local level where the impacts of climate change will be noticed and where small individual actions can really help to reduce future climatic impacts. Everyone uses energy at home and at work so everyone can help minimise climate change. By making small changes to our lifestyles and behaviour, not only will we reduce our carbon emissions, we will save money. Collectively, individual actions can make a massive difference. Click here for further information on simple actions that we can all take at home to reduce our fuel bills.

Related pages on this website

• What are we doing to tackle climate change?