Climate change

Greenland ice sheet Credit_iStock-989228182 1000x300.jpg
© iStock/kappaphoto

Climate change refers to the global, long-term shift in climate patterns and increased average temperatures. These changes, apparent from the mid to late 20th century and onwards, are largely attributed to the increased use of fossil fuels which led to increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses that trap heat within the planet’s lower atmosphere.

Climate change is having an evident effect on the world we live in; ice is melting, sea levels are rising, habitats are being destroyed and people's livelihoods and communities are being disrupted. By being involved in many processes including the carbon and nitrogen cycles, microbes play a key role in many of these changes. However, they also present solutions that can help move towards a more sustainable future.

What is bioremediation?

Bioremediation is the process of using micro-organisms to remove or degrade pollutants from the environment. Learn more about how microbes can help in this video. 

Climate change policy briefing

Life on a Changing Planet

Climate change resources

Discover everything you need to know about the role microbiology plays in climate change, browse our resources and access some of the latest research in our journal collections. 


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Image credits: 

iStock/kappaphoto
Katherine Duncan
iStock/Anton_Petrus
iStock/Opico
Dennis Kunkel Microscopy/Science Photo Library
Maxsattana/Thinkstock