What does "climate change" encompass?

"Climate change" encompasses long-term changes in global temperatures and weather patterns. This includes shifts in average temperature, alterations in precipitation, and variations in weather extremes over extended periods, typically decades to millions of years. Climate change can be caused by natural factors, such as volcanic eruptions and variations in solar radiation, but in recent history, it has been significantly influenced by human activities, especially through the emission of greenhouse gases and deforestation.

Understanding climate change in this way is critical because it highlights the broader impacts on ecosystems, sea levels, and weather patterns that can affect agriculture, water supply, and overall environmental health. Long-term trends rather than temporary fluctuations in weather define climate change, which differentiates it from more immediate and localized weather events. Thus, the choice reflecting long-term changes accurately captures the essence of what climate change represents.