Climate_Change_and_Sustainable_Development.pptx

Introduction

Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century. It refers to long-term shifts in weather patterns and global temperatures, largely caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial emissions. Scientists agree that the earth’s climate is warming at an alarming rate, leading to significant consequences for ecosystems, human societies, and economies.

On the other hand, sustainable development is a concept that addresses how we can grow and progress while safeguarding the environment and ensuring fairness for future generations. Defined by the Brundtland Commission in 1987, sustainable development means “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

Together, these two topics are deeply interconnected: without tackling climate change, sustainable development cannot be achieved, and without sustainable development practices, climate change will worsen.

Causes of Climate Change

The causes of climate change are largely man-made. The most important contributors include:

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) released from burning coal, oil, and gas is the primary driver of climate change.

Methane (CH₄) from agriculture, livestock, and waste management is another potent greenhouse gas.

Nitrous oxide (N₂O) from fertilizers and industrial processes adds to the problem.

Deforestation

Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing large amounts of CO₂.

When forests are cut down for agriculture or urbanization, stored carbon is released, increasing atmospheric CO₂.

Industrialization and Urbanization

Rapid industrial growth has led to increased emissions, pollution, and energy consumption.

Cities contribute to the "heat island effect," raising local temperatures.

Unsustainable Agriculture

Overuse of fertilizers, monocropping, and intensive livestock farming increase greenhouse gases.

Impacts of Climate Change

The impacts of climate change are already visible worldwide and are expected to worsen:

Rising Global Temperatures

The Earth’s average temperature has increased by more than 1°C since the pre-industrial era.

Heatwaves, droughts, and changing rainfall patterns are becoming more frequent.

Melting Glaciers and Rising Sea Levels

Polar ice caps and glaciers are melting rapidly, causing sea levels to rise.

Coastal areas face increased flooding and risk of submergence, threatening millions of lives.

Extreme Weather Events

Hurricanes, cyclones, floods, and droughts have become more intense and destructive.

Developing countries are particularly vulnerable due to limited resources.

Threats to Biodiversity

Many species face extinction due to habitat loss and changing ecosystems.

Coral reefs, vital to marine biodiversity, are bleaching due to warming oceans.

Impact on Human Health and Livelihoods

Increased spread of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue.

Agriculture is affected,

1. Climate Change and Sustainable Development General & Academic Presentation

2. Introduction • Climate change is one of the greatest global challenges today. • It refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. • Sustainable development aims to meet present needs without compromising future generations.

3. Causes of Climate Change • Greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O). • Deforestation and land use changes. • Industrial activities and urbanization. • Excessive use of fossil fuels. • Unsustainable agricultural practices.

4. Impacts of Climate Change • Rising global temperatures. • Melting glaciers and rising sea levels. • Extreme weather events (floods, droughts, storms). • Threats to biodiversity and ecosystems. • Negative effects on human health and agriculture.

5. What is Sustainable Development? • Development that meets the needs of the present without harming the future. • Based on three pillars: - Economic Growth - Social Inclusion - Environmental Protection

6. Role of Sustainable Development • Promotes renewable energy use. • Encourages eco-friendly practices. • Focuses on poverty reduction and equality. • Protects ecosystems and natural resources. • Ensures long-term stability and prosperity.

7. Global Initiatives • Paris Agreement (2015) on climate change. • United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). • Kyoto Protocol. • Green Climate Fund. • International Renewable Energy Initiatives.

8. Conclusion • Climate change is a serious global issue. • Sustainable development is the key to solving it. • Requires cooperation at local, national, and global levels. • Future generations depend on the actions we take today.