With more heat trapped on Earth, the planet will become warmer, which means the weather all over Earth will change. For example, summers will get hotter, and winters too. This may seem a good idea, but the conditions we are living in are perfect for life, and a large rise in temperature could be terrible for us and for any other living thing on Earth.
At the moment, it is difficult for scientists to say how big the changes will be and where the worse effects will occur.
The Weather
In Britain, winter and summer temperatures will increase and the weather will be warmer. In winter, it may also rain more but in summer it may become drier.
In other parts of the world, the effects will be different, some places will become drier and others will be wetter. Although most areas will be warmer, some areas will become cooler. There may be many storms, floods and drought, but we do not know which areas of the world will be affected.
Sea Levels
Higher temperatures will make the water of the seas and oceans expand. Ice melting in the Antarctic and Greenland will flow into the sea.
All over the world, sea levels may rise, perhaps by as much as 20 to 40 cm, by the beginning of next century.
Higher sea levels will threaten the low-lying coastal areas of the world, such as the Netherlands and Bangladesh. Throughout the world, millions of people and areas of land will be at danger from flooding. Many people will have to leave their homes and large areas of farmland will be ruined because of floods.
Farming
The changes in the weather will affect the types of crops grown in different parts of the world. Some crops, such as wheat and rice grow better in higher temperatures, but plants, such as maize and sugarcane do not. Changes in the amount of rainfall will also affect how many plants grow.
The effect of a change in the weather on plant growth may lead to some countries not having enough food. Brazil, parts of Africa, south-east Asia and China will be affected most and many people could suffer from hunger.
Water
Everywhere in the world, there is a big demand for water and in many regions, such as the Sahara in Africa, there is not enough water for the people.
Changes in the weather will bring more rain in some countries, but others will have less rain.
Plants & Animals
It has taken million of years for life to become used to the conditions on Earth. As weather and temperature changes, the homes of plants and animals will be affected all over the world.
For example, polar bears and seals will have to find new land for hunting and living if the ice in the Arctic melts.
Many animals and plants may not be not be able to cope with these changes and could die. This could cause the loss of some animal and plant species in certain areas of the world or everywhere on Earth.
People
The changes in climate will affect everyone, but some populations will be at greater risk. For example, countries whose coastal regions have a large population, such as Egypt and China, may see whole populations move inland to avoid flood risk areas.
The effect on people will depend on how well we can adapt to changes and how much we can do to reduce climate change in the world.
