What are the main causes of climate change?

Climate change is primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. These activities release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere, leading to the trapping of heat and resulting in global warming. Additionally, agricultural practices and land use changes contribute to the release of these gases. In the context of South Africa, the reliance on coal for energy production and the impact of deforestation on the natural carbon cycle are significant contributors to climate change. It's crucial for Grade 12 students studying Earth Sciences to understand these human-induced factors to address and mitigate climate change effectively.