Global warmingSpec 4.7.3.5
In short
Global warming is caused in part by increasing levels of carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. Its biological consequences include loss of habitats as ice melts and sea levels rise, changes in the distribution of species, and changes in the migration patterns of animals. Species that cannot adapt or move may die out, which reduces biodiversity.
Levels of carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere are increasing, and contribute to 'global warming'.
Some biological consequences
- Loss of habitats, for example as ice melts or as sea levels rise and flood low-lying areas.
- Changes in the distribution of species, as organisms move to cooler areas or cannot survive where they were.
- Changes in the migration patterns of animals.
- Some species may not be able to adapt or move, and may die out, which reduces biodiversity.
The evidence
The scientific consensus about global warming and climate change is based on systematic reviews of thousands of peer reviewed publications.
In a complex context the evidence can be uncertain or incomplete. The climate depends on many factors, and predictions use models, so scientists may not agree on exactly how much the temperature will change.
Be specific when you describe a biological consequence. 'Habitat loss' or 'species move to different areas' will score; 'bad for animals' will not.
Written and checked against the AQA GCSE Combined Science (8464) specification · Updated October 2026