Climate Change

Climate change is the long-term warming of the Earth and increasing instability of weather patterns, caused primarily by more than a century of burning fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas), which release heat-trapping greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

It is important to distinguish between weather and climate. Weather is what we experience on any given day, such as rain, heat or frost. Climate is the average pattern of weather over many years. Climate change does not mean that cold weather will disappear. Rather, it means that average temperatures are rising and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent year after year.

How it works – The Greenhouse Effect

Imagine a car parked in the sun with its windows closed. The inside quickly becomes hot because heat enters the vehicle but cannot easily escape. The greenhouse effect works in much the same way.

The Sun warms the Earth's surface. Some of this heat is then released back towards space, where it would normally escape and allow the planet to cool. However, certain gases in the atmosphere—particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane—act like a blanket. They allow sunlight to pass through while trapping some of the heat, preventing it from escaping. Thanks to this natural greenhouse effect, the Earth remains warm enough to support life—and that is a good thing.

The problem arises when there are too many of these gases in the atmosphere. By burning coal, oil and natural gas, human activity releases vast amounts of greenhouse gases into the air. As this "blanket" becomes thicker, more heat is trapped and less escapes into space, causing the planet to warm.

Where do these additional greenhouse gases come from? Primarily from burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas. This happens wherever energy is produced or used—in power stations, vehicles, factories and home heating systems. Deforestation also contributes to the problem. Trees act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. The fewer forests there are, the more carbon dioxide remains in the air.

The Scale of the Problem – Key Facts

• Atmospheric CO₂ concentrations have increased from approximately 278 parts per million before the Industrial Revolution to more than 420 parts per million today.
• The Earth's average temperature is now around 1.3–1.4°C higher than in the nineteenth century.
• Recent years have been the warmest on record. Rising temperatures are affecting not only the atmosphere but also the oceans, while glaciers and ice sheets are melting at an unprecedented rate.

Although an increase of just one degree may seem small, on a global scale it represents an enormous increase in energy, which is why its impacts are so significant.

What it means for Grudziądz

Climate change is not only about melting glaciers in distant regions. In Grudziądz and the surrounding area, it primarily means:

• More frequent and longer heatwaves, posing particular risks to older people, children and those with health conditions.
• Droughts and water shortages, affecting agriculture, increasing food prices and reducing water availability.
• Heavy rainfall, storms and strong winds, leading to more frequent flooding, damaged infrastructure and fallen trees.
• A stronger urban heat island effect, with built-up areas becoming significantly hotter during summer.
• Growing pressure on ecosystems, making it more difficult for many plant and animal species to adapt to changing conditions.

Grudziądz is already experiencing these impacts. Increasingly frequent heatwaves, heavy rainfall and droughts are among the reasons why the "Let's Make a Difference" project was launched.

Two Approaches: mitigation and adaptation

Addressing climate change requires action in two complementary areas.

Mitigation focuses on addressing the causes of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This includes replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, reducing dependence on conventional vehicles and increasing the energy performance of buildings.

Adaptation involves preparing for the impacts of climate change that can no longer be avoided. Examples include expanding urban green spaces, improving water management, collecting rainwater and implementing flood protection measures. Adaptation is at the heart of the "Let's Make a Difference" project, helping Grudziądz become more resilient to a changing climate.

What is Grudziądz doing through the "Let's Make a Difference" project?

The project provides a practical response to the challenges of climate change by implementing a range of measures, including:

• Blue-green infrastructure, introducing more greenery and water-based solutions in parks, streets and public squares.
• Flood protection measures, including works along the Trynka Canal to reduce flood risk.
• The "Green School" Nature Education Centre at Lake Tarpieńskie, providing environmental education for residents.
• Educational programmes and competitions for schools, promoting environmental awareness and climate resilience.

What can you do? Everyday choices matter

Climate change is a global challenge, but individual actions also make a difference:

• Save energy by using LED lighting, switching off unused appliances and reducing heating where possible.
• Choose cycling, walking or public transport instead of travelling by car whenever possible.
• Reduce food waste, as food production generates significant greenhouse gas emissions.
• Plant trees and care for green spaces, which help absorb CO₂, cool the environment and retain water.
• Collect rainwater and use water responsibly, particularly during periods of drought.
• Sort waste and make informed purchasing decisions to reduce unnecessary consumption and emissions.

In summary