Global warming

Global warming is the long-term rise in the average temperature of the Earth's climate system. It is
a major aspect of climate change and has been demonstrated by direct temperature
measurements and by measurements of various effects of the warming.[5][6] Global
warming and climate change are often used interchangeably.[7] But more accurately, global
warming is the mainly human-caused increase in global surface temperatures and its projected
continuation,[8] while climate change includes both global warming and its effects, such as changes in
precipitation.[9] While there have been prehistoric periods of global warming,[10] many observed
changes since the mid-20th century have been unprecedented over decades to millennia.

The effects of global warming include rising sea levels, regional changes in precipitation, more
frequent extreme weather events such as heat waves, and expansion of deserts.[17] Ocean
acidification is also caused by greenhouse gas emissions and is commonly grouped with these
effects even though it is not driven by temperature. Surface temperature increases are greatest in
the Arctic, which has contributed to the retreat of glaciers, permafrost, and sea ice. Overall, higher
temperatures bring more rain and snowfall, but for some regions droughts and wildfires increase
instead.

Aspects of sustainability
Sustainability requires consideration of four aspects (sometimes also known as perspectives,

pillars).

The four aspects

While all four aspects of sustainability are important, environmental sustainable is fundamental to the

kaitiakitanga of our environment.

Environmental – this aspect acknowledges the need to enhance and maintain the biophysical systems that

sustain all life on Earth. It includes the structure and function of natural ecosystems and the interactions

between them and people, and calls for guardianship/kaitiakitanga of our environment.

Social – this aspect acknowledges the need for equity within and between generations, and within and

between ethnic and social groups. It is inclusive of people’s mental and physical well-being and the cohesion

of their communities based on a fair distribution of resources.

Cultural – this aspect acknowledges the need to nourish and share attitudes and values that represent

diverse worldviews, and the political need for all people to express their views freely and to participate in

decision-making. Addressing these needs can build resilience for the future.

Economic – this aspect acknowledges the interactions of humans with the natural environment in using

resources to create goods and services which add value to their lives. It acknowledges the resource use and

waste disposal must occur within the capacity of our planet. It encourages a fair trading system that
equitably distributes benefits and costs. It further encourages innovation and creativity in developments that

lead to a sustainable future.