Global Warming -- National Geographic

Here's what you need to know about the warming planet, how it's affecting us, and what's at stake.

2015 Was the Hottest Year on Record

Scientists pin the blame on El Niño and climate change.
Climate Change Is a Cereal Killer

Extreme drought can devastate cereal crops far more than flooding or cold.
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The Great Energy Challenge

The National Geographic initiative is a call to action to become actively involved, to learn more and do more—to change how we think about and consume energy so that we can all help tackle the big energy questions.
See the World's Methane Hotspots

Thousands of sites worldwide are releasing the potent greenhouse gas intentionally.
2015 Was a Warm, Wild Year. What’s Next?

Weather and climate-related storms caused billions in damage and killed 155 people.
Before-and-After Photos of Our Changing Environment

See just how much glaciers, lakes, and snowpacks have been altered by nature and humans.
What’s Behind the Freakishly Warm Winter?

Global warming, El Niño, and the jet stream gave many Americans a balmy December.
Lost Ships Discovered Thanks to Global Warming

Two ships found in the Arctic may have been part of a disaster that hastened the end of U.S. whaling.
The Arctic Is Melting. Will We Bring It Back?

Will future generations, accustomed to an open Arctic, even want to cover it with ice again?
How Arctic Fish Might Benefit From Shrinking Ice

Fish that hunt by sight may get a boost as polar ice disappears.
Are Coastal Nuclear Plants Ready for Rising Seas?

Some low-lying plants face a watery future, but the legacy of Fukushima is spurring action.
Will Warming Heat Humans Beyond Their Limits?

We'll have to contend with more than storms and rising seas if we don't curb climate change. The heat alone could kill a lot of us.
A Canada Island Loses Ground but Not Hope

Tiny Lennox Island is shrinking. Its indigenous people aren't waiting for global help: They're taking action now.
Three Reasons the Climate Accord Might Succeed

The Paris deal aims to accelerate a global shift toward clean energy, and it’s getting help from business and technology.
Another View: How the Paris Deal Falls Short

A National Geographic Emerging Explorer says the world needs legally binding, not voluntary, commitments.
What the New Climate Deal Really Means

The world’s countries have agreed to initiate a big shift away from fossil fuels. Who are the winners and losers?
Anticipating the 'Moments Before the Flood'

Carl De Keyzer photographed the entire European coastline to capture its unique beauty "before it’s too late.”
Provence's Lavender Fields at Risk

Pest infestation and weather changes are taking a toll on the storied French region's herbs, truffles, and olives.
Oceans May Be Left Out of the Climate Plan

But ocean scientists in Paris say negotiators could learn important lessons from the Mediterranean and the Seychelles.
Linking Hunger, Agriculture, and Climate

The head of an international agricultural research consortium says food systems can play a key role in addressing climate change.
Can COP21 Help Save the Snow Sports Industry?

Continued warming on the slopes could devastate local economies across the American West and New England.
Top U.S. Scientist: World Must "Completely Decarbonize"

Obama's science advisor John Holdren knows it will be difficult to reach zero carbon emissions, but he's optimistic.
Four Unresolved Questions in Draft of Climate Agreement

Negotiators in Paris have a rough draft, but the real work is just beginning.
Five Reasons We Need to Act Now on Climate Change

As world leaders in Paris negotiate cuts in greenhouse gases, scientists say we face urgent reasons to take action.
A Blueprint for a Carbon-Free World

Explore what your country's energy mix might look like with 100 percent renewable energy.
Cities Join Push to Divest From Fossil Fuels

The grassroots movement began in colleges before spreading to churches. Now dozens of cities are getting on board.
Bill Nye: The Facts About Climate Change

The Science Guy says it’s not too late to avoid the most serious effects of global warming.
Rising Temperatures Push Maple Trees to the Brink

The colorful trees—and their beloved maple syrup—require a highly specialized climate.
A New Climate Threat for Snow Leopards: People

As traditional pastures dry up, Mongolian herders are forced to move livestock into the big cat’s territory.
Paris Climate Talks: What You Need to Know

These next two weeks are among the most important ever in guiding the planet’s future.