Introduction

This chapter will provide a brief overview of climate change. It begins with our current understanding of the natural greenhouse effect and discusses how human activities are enhancing this effect with profound implications for the environment. It will show the sources and sinks of the various greenhouse gases and bring attention to the inexorable rise of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide in the atmosphere; this has been brought about by population growth and economic development, and the global community’s slow response to the climate phenomenon. Activities by different stakeholders will be highlighted. The roles of national governments and business organisations are discussed as is that of international expert groups. The role of the individual thus far has been largely passive, but this needs to change and it begins with an understanding of their responsibilities in a climate-changed world. The concept of an individual’s carbon debt is introduced.