A
Long-term alterations in Earth’s climate system leading to new weather patterns.
climate change
The trace gas at 0.04% that plays a crucial role in regulating climate.
carbon dioxide
Cutting down forests, reducing CO₂ absorption.
deforestation
The rise in ocean water levels due to warming.
rising sea levels
A Spanish term meaning “the girl child,” linked to unusually cool Pacific waters.
La Niña
The sustained increase in the planet’s average surface temperature.
global warming
The process where gases absorb and trap heat, keeping Earth warm.
greenhouse effect
Burning oil, gas, and coal.
fossil fuels
The loss of species forced to move to cooler habitats.
wildlife endangerment
The large-scale climatic phenomenon involving fluctuating ocean temperatures and atmosphere.
ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation)
The primary driver of climate change, accounting for about 65% of global emissions.
carbon dioxide (CO₂)
A greenhouse gas produced by livestock and agriculture.
methane (CH₄)
Emissions from factories and vehicles.
industry and transportation
Severe weather events like storms, floods, and droughts.
extreme weather
One of the strongest ENSO events of the 20th century, causing drought in the Philippines.
1997–1998 El Niño
The gas that makes up 78% of Earth’s atmosphere.
nitrogen
A greenhouse gas produced by fertilizers and soil management.
nitrous oxide (N₂O)
Farming activities that emit methane and nitrous oxide.
agriculture
Spread of diseases due to warmer temperatures and ecosystem disruption.
spreading diseases
Higher evaporation rates leading to increased precipitation and flooding.
rising temperatures
The gas that makes up 21% of Earth’s atmosphere.
oxygen
Industrial greenhouse gases like HFCs, SF₆, and NF₃.
human-made greenhouse gases
The melting of glaciers, ice caps, and sea ice.
ice melting
A Spanish term meaning “the boy child,” linked to unusually warm Pacific waters.
What is El Niño
Heavy rainfall washing pathogens into drinking water sources.
water contamination (spreading diseases)