The polar ice caps are melting because the Earth is getting warmer, mostly because of things people do.
Why is the Earth Getting Warmer?
Think of the Earth wearing an extra-warm blanket. That blanket is made of gases in the air, like carbon dioxide. Normally, these gases are helpful because they keep the Earth warm enough for us to live. But, since the early 1900s, people have been adding too much of these gases to the air.
How? One big way is by burning fuels like oil, coal, and gas. We burn these fuels to power cars, trucks, planes, and to make electricity for our homes. Burning these fuels releases that extra carbon dioxide into the air.
This extra gas makes the Earth's blanket thicker, trapping more heat. This is called climate change, and it makes the whole planet get warmer over time.
What Happens When the Earth Gets Warmer?
When the Earth gets warmer, especially near the North and South Poles where it's usually very cold, the giant sheets of ice and glaciers start to melt. It's like taking an ice cube out of the freezer on a hot day!
This melting ice means:
- Animals Lose Their Homes: Animals like polar bears that live on the ice find it harder to find food and places to rest.
- Sea Levels Rise: When the ice melts into the ocean, it makes the water levels go up, which can cause problems for people and places near the coast.
What Can Kids Do to Help?
The good news is that everyone can help slow down the Earth's warming! Even though human activities like fossil fuel burning have caused the problem, we can also be part of the solution.
Here are some ways you can do your part to help reduce climate change:
- Save Energy: Turn off lights and electronics when you're not using them.
- Walk or Bike: If you're going somewhere close, try walking or riding your bike instead of asking for a ride in a car.
- Recycle: Recycling helps save energy and resources.
- Use Less Water: It takes energy to pump, heat, and clean water.
- Talk About It: Share what you learned with your family and friends!
Every little bit helps keep our planet cool and healthy for everyone!
