human
Can you explain what the term 'climate change' means?
assistant
Climate change is a broad term used to describe the long-term shift in global weather patterns and their effects on our environment. It is caused by an increase in the Earth's average surface temperature, caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and cutting down forests, as well as natural factors like changes in sunlight and volcanic eruptions. The effects of climate change include extreme weather events, changes in the amount and pattern of precipitation, and rising sea levels. All of these contribute to a decrease in the quality of life for people around the world, as well as contribute to global warming.