As the climate changes, the way we live must change too. Whether you believe the causes are down to human action, or natural events, climate change is a reality.

We need to understand and be able to respond to the effects of these changes - and must do what we can together to stop it from getting worse - both now and for future generations. Everyone - young or old, in work or not, can play their part in the way we tackle climate change.

What is climate change and why is it important?

Greenhouse gases

The major cause of climate change is the release of so-called greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These are released every time we turn on our heating, switch on a light, or throw out rubbish that ends up in a landfill site. The carbon dioxide and methane released by these everyday activities is making the world warmer (believe it or not!), with temperatures predicted to continue to rise over the next 50 years.

Rainfall patterns are also changing and extreme weather conditions are becoming more frequent. This creates many issues globally and locally - so the reduction of greenhouse gases must be at the heart of any action plan.

Energy resources

We are also running out of key energy resources, such as gas, and the Government is concerned about the security of overseas energy supplies. Recent problems in Eastern Europe caused by a disruption of gas from Russia show how fragile current supplies can be. We need to find new ways to get our energy using renewable sources including wind, solar and hydro electricity.

The economy

Climate change will also significantly affect our economy. The Stern Review, commissioned by the Government, predicted that if we take no action, the cost of climate change will be the equivalent of losing at least 5% of gross domestic produce every year. In other words it will cost us far less to act now rather than pay for the consequences in the future.