Global warming refers to the long-term rise in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to the "greenhouse effect," which causes the planet's temperature to increase over time. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial processes, and agricultural practices are major contributors to global warming.

The effects of global warming include melting polar ice caps, rising sea levels, more frequent and severe heatwaves, changes in precipitation patterns, and more intense storms. These changes have significant impacts on ecosystems, wildlife, agriculture, and human communities, leading to loss of biodiversity, food security challenges, and displacement of people.

Global efforts to combat global warming have focused on reducing carbon emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and promoting sustainable practices. International agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to limit global temperature rise to below 2 degrees Celsius, with an aspirational target of 1.5 degrees, to mitigate the worst impacts of global warming.