Embedded Files
Guiding Question: What relationships exist between climate and changes on Earth?
What determines Climate?
What determines Climate?
Main factors
Main factors
Sun's energy: primary heat source
Greenhouse effect: gases trap heat (CO₂, CH₄, H₂O vapour).
Clouds & ice: reflect sunlight.
Location: latitude (distance from equator), elevation, closeness to water, urban heat islands.
Natural vs. human causes of climate change
Natural vs. human causes of climate change
natural processes
natural processes
Volcanic Eruptions: ash clouds block sunlight.
Meteor Impacts: dust clouds block sunlight, cooling Earth.
Sun's Activity Changes: more energy → warmer climate.
Orbital Changes: Earth's tilt & orbit alter sunlight received.
human causes
human causes
(anthropogenic)
Burning fossil fuels → CO₂ & methane.
Deforestation removes CO₂‑absorbing trees.
Industrialization and pollution raise greenhouse gas levels.
Impacts of Climate Change
Impacts of Climate Change
on Environment
on Environment
More extreme weather (storms, heatwaves).
Melting glaciers → rising sea levels.
Forest fires & drought risk.
on agriculture
on agriculture
Crop shifts, pest changes, irrigation needs.
on communities
on communities
First Nations, Métis, and Inuit traditional practices (hunting, fishing, travel) are affected by melting ice and changing wildlife.
on wildlife
on wildlife
Migration changes, loss of habitats.
Monitoring & Predicting Changes
Monitoring & Predicting Changes
Evidence sources
Evidence sources
Recorded weather data (temperature, precipitation).
Ice core samples showing CO₂ levels.
Tree rings, sediment layers.
Oral histories and traditional knowledge.
Prediction Tools
Prediction Tools
Satellites, radar, computer models.
Collaboration in Climate Change
Collaboration in Climate Change
Why does it matter?
Working with Elders and Knowledge Keepers gives local, long‑term climate insights.
Combining scientific instruments + traditional observation strengthens understanding.
Page updated
Report abuse