Climate change not only threatens Earth’s biodiversity but may also lead to dramatic impacts on human populations—something that we may experience within our own lifetimes.
First, let us begin by reflecting on the climate where we live. Have you noticed any changes over the past decade or two (if you have been in the area that long)? If you recently moved, you might instead consider a place where you lived previously for this discussion. Share with the class your observations of local changes in climate, and any impacts those changes may have caused.
Second, let us consider some reasons that our own personal observations (called anecdotal data) are not sufficient evidence to describe how, if at all, the climate might be changing where we live. What are some concerns with relying on people’s memories of recent weather? Why might there be a reason for scientists to doubt the accuracy of this information?