Climate change represents one of the most urgent and complex challenges of our time, an issue that touches every aspect of our daily lives: from the air we breathe, to the food we eat, to the way we move and travel.
Understanding the causes of climate change is not just a theoretical exercise, but an essential step in addressing its consequences and building a more sustainable future.
In this article, we guide you through a clear and in-depth journey into the natural and human-induced causes of global warming, the effects of climate change already in motion, and the concrete implications for key sectors like transportation and tourism. Whether you’re a curious citizen, a student, or a professional concerned with sustainability, you’ll find useful and up-to-date insights to understand where we stand, what’s happening, and, most importantly, what we can do together to change the course.
The natural causes of climate change: when nature changes the climate (but it’s not enough)
The Earth’s climate has undergone natural changes for millions of years, driven by factors such as variations in solar radiation, volcanic eruptions, and Earth’s orbital cycles [1]. Solar activities, for example, directly influence the amount of energy our planet receives. Although these variations are cyclical and relatively small, they can influence the climate over the long term.
Volcanic eruptions represent another natural cause: when a volcano erupts, it releases large amounts of sulfur dioxide and particles that can reflect sunlight and cause a temporary global cooling. Finally, the Milankovitch cycles, which refer to changes in Earth’s orbit and tilt, determine the amount of solar radiation the Earth receives during specific periods and in certain areas [2]. These cycles are closely linked to climate changes on a geological scale, such as ice ages.
However, the scientific community agrees that the current global warming is largely driven by human activities. Studies published by international organizations like the IPCC demonstrate that the increase in greenhouse gas emissions since the start of the industrial era, particularly in recent decades, is directly responsible for the rise in global temperatures, the frequency of extreme weather events, and the increasingly visible disruptions in the natural balances of our planet \[3].
Sources:
[1] How Earth’s Climate Changes Naturally (and Why Things Are Different Now) – Quantamagazine (2020)
[2] Milankovitch Cycles: Geological Sciences – Geologyscience (2023)
[3] Human activities have caused unprecedented changes in Earth’s climate – IPCC (2021)
The human-induced causes of climate change
While it is true that the Earth’s climate has always undergone natural fluctuations, it is equally true that never before has humanity had such a decisive impact on the planet’s balances. In the last two centuries, human activity has accelerated and amplified phenomena that once took millennia to manifest [4]. Since the Industrial Revolution, our development model has generated an unprecedented environmental impact: but what are the main causes?
1. Greenhouse gas emissions
The accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, caused by human activities, is now recognized as the main cause of climate change. In particular, the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas to produce energy, fuel vehicles, and support industrial processes releases billions of tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) each year [5].
In addition to CO2, other gases also contribute to the greenhouse effect. Methane (CH4), for example, is produced by intensive farming, rice cultivation, landfills, and fossil fuel production. It is much more powerful than CO2 in terms of its ability to trap heat, even though it is present in smaller quantities. Nitrous oxide (N2O), which comes from the use of agricultural fertilizers, also has a significant warming impact.
2. Deforestation and land use changes
Forests act as huge carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 through photosynthesis. When they are cut down or burned, this carbon is released into the atmosphere. Tropical deforestation for agricultural expansion, livestock farming, and urban development significantly contributes to the increase in global emissions.
Inoltre, la trasformazione di ecosistemi naturali in aree urbane o agricole comporta una perdita della capacità naturale di assorbire gas serra e regolare il clima locale.
3. Industry and energy production
The industrial sector and energy production represent a significant portion of global emissions. Coal-fired power plants and oil refineries emit huge quantities of greenhouse gases. The production of cement, steel, and other heavy materials is also particularly energy-intensive and contributes to the increase in atmospheric CO2 [6]. For example, did you know that cement production alone is responsible for about 8% of global emissions?
Sources:
[4] What was the Industrial Revolution’s Environmental Impact? – Kara Anderson (2024)
[5] Record CO2 concentration in the atmosphere: we’re at 424 ppm – Rinnovabili (2023)
[6] How to reduce CO2 emissions from cement? – AtlasCopco (2024)
Causes and effects of climate change
The consequences of climate change are already manifesting in tangible ways. The global average temperature has increased by more than 1.1°C compared to pre-industrial levels, with severe effects on a global scale. These include the melting of Arctic ice, the reduction of snow cover, and rising sea levels, which threaten inhabited coastal areas [7].
Additionally, there is an increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, heatwaves, and droughts. These events have a devastating impact on infrastructure, local economies, and vulnerable populations. A recent example is the flooding that hit Germany and Belgium in 2021, causing over 200 deaths and billions of euros in damages \[8]. Similarly, Cyclone Mocha devastated Myanmar and Bangladesh in 2023, worsening the humanitarian crisis in already fragile areas [9]. And these are no longer exceptions: events of this kind are becoming the new normal in many regions of the world.
Impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity
Climate change is profoundly altering both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Animal and plant species are being forced to migrate, adapt, or, in some cases, go extinct. A notable example is the Australian Great Barrier Reef, which has experienced recurring bleaching events in recent years due to rising ocean temperatures, compromising a unique marine ecosystem in the world [10].
In the Alpine regions, the premature melting of snow is altering the phenology of plants and the behavior of animals, while in African ecosystems, giraffes and other herbivores are facing a drastic reduction in water resources. Additionally, water resources in general are becoming increasingly scarce in many parts of the world, jeopardizing agriculture, water supply, and food security [11].
Socio-economic consequences
On a human level, the effects of climate change include an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, loss of homes and livelihoods, and forced migrations from areas affected by desertification or flooding. A significant example is the situation in the Horn of Africa, where millions of people have had to leave their lands due to multi-year droughts that have made it impossible to continue farming or raising livestock [12].
Even in Italy, events like the 2023 flood in Emilia-Romagna have caused tens of thousands of people to be displaced and economic damages estimated in billions of euros, highlighting how even industrialized countries are vulnerable. Global agriculture is suffering from production declines due to drought and extreme weather conditions \[13], with repercussions on the economy and food security, as evidenced by recent price hikes in wheat and other essential goods.
Sources:
[7] Consequences of climate change – European Commission (2025)
[8] From Belgium to Germany to Spain: Floods in Europe are increasing and becoming more violent – SkyTG24 (2024)
[9] Mocha does what all cyclones do: destroys everything – La Repubblica (2023) Great Barrier Reef, the largest bleaching event ever! – Greenpeace (2020)
[11] Water, a scarce resource by Sofia Belardinelli – Il BO live University of Padua (2022)
[12] Horn of Africa on its knees between extreme drought and floods – Affari Internazionali (2024)
[13] Drought: the impact on the agricultural sector – Openpolis (2023)
The role of the transport secto
The transport sector is one of the main contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for around 25% of CO2 emissions from fossil fuels \[14]. Road transport, which includes private cars, trucks, and buses, is the most polluting segment. Internal combustion engine cars, in particular, represent a significant share of urban emissions. Air transport also has a considerable impact: although it represents a smaller portion of global travel, it disproportionately contributes to emissions per passenger. Maritime transport, while more efficient over long distances, often uses heavy fuels that are highly polluting.
Are you interested in the topic? Read our article: Transportation modes compared: which one is the most sustainable?
Possible solutions and mitigation of the problem
Reducing the climate impact of the sector requires investments in clean technologies, such as electric vehicles powered by renewable sources, and a modal shift towards more sustainable forms of mobility. Strengthening public transport networks, promoting cycling and walking mobility, and developing integrated infrastructures that combine trains and low-impact transport are key solutions. Promoting sustainable mobility is not only an environmental choice but also an opportunity to improve urban quality of life.
In this context, platforms like Discovera offer a concrete and sustainable alternative: by integrating train travel and local experiences, they promote a more responsible way of traveling, reducing the use of private cars and encouraging proximity tourism.
Sources:
[14] Decarbonizing transport – Ministry of Infrastructure and Sustainable Mobility (2022)
Tourism and climate change
Tourism, if not managed properly, can have a significant environmental impact. In addition to transportation, which often involves high-emission modes (such as airplanes or private cars), the energy consumption in hotels, intensive use of natural resources, and the pressure exerted on local ecosystems also contribute to the increase in emissions. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), tourism accounts for about 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions [15]. This impact is expected to grow with the rising global demand for travel.
Towards more sustainable tourism
To reduce the sector’s impact, it is necessary to rethink the way we travel. Proximity tourism, which prioritizes nearby destinations accessible by sustainable transport (such as trains), is one of the most promising paths. Promoting eco-friendly accommodations, adopting energy-saving practices, involving local communities, and valuing natural and cultural heritage in a sustainable way can significantly reduce the ecological footprint of tourism.
Sources:
[15] Climate, tourism causes 8% of global CO2 emissions – ANSA (2018)
Solutions to combat climate change
After thoroughly analyzing the causes and effects of climate change, it is essential to focus on what we can do to counteract it. Solutions already exist and are being implemented in many parts of the world: some require large-scale systemic transformations, while others can start from everyday choices that we can all adopt.
Systemic solutions
Countering climate change requires structural transformations. The energy transition to renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower is one of the key levers. A profound reform of production systems is also necessary to make them less polluting and more efficient, adopting circular economy principles and waste reduction. Agriculture must also evolve toward regenerative models that protect soil fertility and reduce methane and nitrous oxide emissions.
Individual actions
Each of us can contribute in a concrete way. For example, reducing household energy consumption, choosing low-impact transportation, adopting a sustainable diet by prioritizing plant-based and local foods, and participating in reforestation and land protection activities. Daily choices can make a difference when they become part of a collective movement.
Conclusion
Tackling climate change requires collective action, based on conscious choices and ambitious policies. Understanding the causes of climate change and addressing its main sources is the only way to safeguard the planet for future generations. Change is possible, but it requires courage, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future.
It’s a journey that starts with us, from our homes, from our daily choices. But it’s also a challenge that involves governments, businesses, and international institutions. Only by joining forces can we transform the current crisis into an opportunity for the Earth’s rebirth. Because every action counts, and every decision can help shape a greener, fairer, and more resilient future.
