Global warming is the rise in average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere and oceans caused primarily by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases from human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation. The key greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. Effects of global warming include rising sea levels, melting glaciers and sea ice, loss of habitat, and changes in weather patterns. Individual actions like using less energy and switching to renewable energy can help reduce emissions and slow the pace of global warming.