Heat waves, intense storms, and prolonged droughts are just a few of the effects of climate change that already impact the environment and human life. While some of these phenomena may have natural causes, such as variations in the solar cycle, human actions, such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels, have accelerated these changes since the 19th century.

According to the UN, it is still possible to reduce the effects of these transformations, but this requires collaboration between the public, private and civil society sectors, and for this to happen, it is essential that everyone is well informed about the topic.

Below are ten true or false about climate change.
 

Climate change isn't real.

False. Climate change is proven by scientific studies and historical data. The increase in temperatures, extreme weather events and changes in ecosystems are some of the evidence pointed out by globally recognized bodies, such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), created by the UN.

The transformations in the climate are linked to the concentration of greenhouse gases.

True. Climate change is directly associated with the concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as carbon dioxide and methane. These substances trap heat in the atmosphere, intensifying global warming. Human activities, such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels, are primarily responsible for this growing concentration.

Only the industry should be concerned about climate change.

False. Although the industry is a major emitter of greenhouse gases, everyone has a role in combating climate change. Governments, companies, and individuals need to collaborate to promote sustainable practices, from changes in public policies to daily habits, such as reducing waste and saving energy.

Changes in climate affect public health and the global economy.

True. Climate impacts are not limited to the environment. Natural disasters and changes in weather patterns harm food production, increase health costs, and generate significant economic losses.
 

Developing countries are more resilient to climate impacts.

False. Developing countries are actually more vulnerable, as they have fewer resources to deal with climate impacts. In addition, many of these regions are highly economically dependent on activities such as agriculture, which works according to the climate, which increases the exposure of these countries to risks.

The energy transition is one of the pillars for containing climate change.

True. Replacing fossil energy sources with renewable alternatives, such as solar and wind, is critical to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This transition also includes improving energy efficiency and adopting technologies that minimize the environmental impact of human activities.

Only rich countries have a responsibility to combat climate change.

False. All countries play an important role in tackling climate change. Smaller nations can lead by example in implementing innovative solutions, such as the use of renewable energy and conservation practices, in addition to pushing for more ambitious global commitments.

Changes in climate are generating climate refugees.

True. Extreme events, such as floods, prolonged droughts, and rising sea levels, are forcing populations to abandon their homes, creating the phenomenon of climate refugees. It is estimated that millions of people have already been displaced by climate-related disasters, a trend that is expected to worsen in the coming decades.

The temperatures have stabilized and will not rise any more.

False. Global temperatures continue to rise due to the high concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. According to the UN, without effective actions to reduce emissions, the planet could warm by more than 3°C by the end of the century, intensifying climate impacts.

Individual actions make a difference.

True. Small everyday changes, such as saving energy, reducing waste, and supporting sustainable initiatives, have significant cumulative impact. In addition, individual actions encourage large scale changes, influencing more conscious public policies and business practices.