Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide that trap heat in the atmosphere. This leads to climate change, or long-term shifts in weather patterns including increased temperatures and more extreme storms. The main cause is excessive carbon dioxide from human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation. If left unaddressed, global warming will have serious economic and environmental consequences, including rising sea levels, stronger hurricanes, species extinction, and disruption of ecosystems and food supplies. Individual actions like driving efficient vehicles and using energy-saving light bulbs can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight global warming.