Climate change effects

If we don't change, our climate will.

There's been a lot of talk about climate change in recent times. But did you know that 11 of the hottest years since 1850 have occurred in the past 12 years? Our climate is already changing and it's time for some positive action.

We've all played a part in changing our natural climate patterns by burning fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural gas to produce the power for our homes, businesses and industries. By doing so, we've released enormous amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere.

It's these gas emissions that cause climate change, and experts say that unless we reduce these emissions, global temperatures will increase by around 1°C to 6.3°C by the end of the century. That's enough to melt sea ice at the poles and raise ocean levels to a point where coastal towns and cities will be flooded. And it's enough to change climate patterns, vegetation, natural ecosystems and economies.

How will this affect us in Australia?

How can we slow down global warming?

What can we do?