Climate Change Impacts - Earth's average surface temperature has risen by 12%°C since the late 19th century, with accelerated warming since the 1970s [1] - Sea levels have risen 25 cm since the 1880s and are now rising at twice the rate of the 20th century [1] - In 2024 alone, there were over 50 climate-related disasters, each causing $1 billion or more in damage [1] - Trillions of tons of ice have melted in Antarctica and Greenland in recent decades [1] Causes of Rising Sea Levels - Melting glaciers and ice sheets are major contributors to rising sea levels [1] - Warming oceans cause water to expand, further contributing to sea level rise [1] Global Impact and Awareness - Tuvalu, a small island nation in the South Pacific Ocean, is experiencing severe flooding, leading to displacement of its residents [1] - Simon Co, the foreign minister of Tuvalu, delivered a speech standing knee-deep in seawater to highlight the impact of climate change [1] - A personal observation of glacier retreat in the French Alps demonstrates the visible effects of climate change [1] Call to Action - The report emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change and reducing carbon emissions [1] - Individuals can contribute by making small changes in their lives, such as walking instead of driving and reducing plastic use [1][2]