Until a few years ago, the term used to describe the change in global weather was often referred to as “global warming.” However, global warming is a misnomer, seeing that many of the environmental changes being experienced go beyond just warmer temperatures.

To rectify the situation, modifications in weather patterns and temperature are now classified as “climate change,” a broader term that encompasses many different weather-related phenomena.

Climate change is a long-term change in the statistical distribution of weather patterns over periods of time. It may be a change in weather conditions or in the frequency of severe weather events. It also takes into consideration increases or decreases in temperature.

Over the past 100 years, the temperature on the Earth has risen by 1 degree. Climate change specialists aren’t exactly sure why this is occurring, but many feel the changes have to do with people and their habits — in addition to naturally occurring events. The greenhouse effect is a major contributor.

The byproducts of life on Earth, such as burning of fossil fuels, generate greenhouse gases. These gases rise into the atmosphere and get trapped. The trapped gases form an insulation of sorts, keeping the heat of the Earth from escaping and generating extra warmth.

Greenhouse gases aren’t the only contributors to climate change. There are many other factors. Variations in solar radiation, deviations in the Earth’s orbit, mountain-building and continental drift are other things that can affect the climate.

Another large contributor is behaviors that produce methane gas. Landfills, cattle, rice paddies and the like generate a large quantity of methane gas. Methane works like carbon dioxide in that it contributes to greenhouse gases.

Changing climate on a global scale can also be a result of other instances on the planet cloud cover, volcanic eruptions and ocean changes.

Although it can take hundreds of years for individual habits to affect the climate, there are things that individuals can do on a daily basis to reduce their impact on the climate.

* Reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Using alternative power, such as solar or even nuclear power, can reduce emissions that contribute to greenhouse gases.

* Insulate the home. Prevent heat or cooling loss by ensuring the home is well insulated and windows/doors aren’t drafty. This reduces energy use.

* Cut down on automobile use. Walk, ride a bike or take public transportation to reduce the number of cars on the roads.

* Use local goods. Purchasing items from a local retailer cuts down on the shipping and importing of foreign items, which contributes to fuel consumption.

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