Climate change is a long-term change in average weather patterns. This is natural and has always been going on throughout Earth’s history. Although often used synonymously, the term ‘climate change’ should be distinguished from ‘global warming’ (see, for instance, ‘What Is Climate Change?’). ‘Global warming’ is the relatively rapid heating of Earth’s surface since the start of the Industrial Revolution (roughly early 1800s) mainly due to human activities. These activities primarily involve fossil fuel burning (eg coal, oil), which release heat-trapping greenhouse gases (eg CO2, methane) into the Earth’s atmosphere.

There is no question that global warming is due to human activities is happening. Few issues enjoy the level of consensus in the scientific community as global warming, with some 97% of actively publishing climate scientists in agreement (for some useful sources, see ‘Do scientists agree on climate change?').

To help you in your General Paper, look up about the COP30 that took place in November 2025. In particular, consider the angle that the United States did not send an official delegation (why?) and did this afford an opportunity for China to take on a leadership role? You might also investigate what progress China has made in recent years in solar power and other renewables (see, for example, the BBC article ‘Seven quiet wins for climate and nature in 2025’).