How to talk about CLIMATE CHANGE in English

Summary

In this video, Keith from English Speaking Success helps viewers build confidence in discussing climate change in English. He covers essential terminology like 'CO2,' 'carbon emissions,' and 'renewable energy,' along with advanced collocations such as 'unsurmountable challenge' and 'urgent need.' The video also introduces useful verbs, phrasal verbs like 'cut down on,' and idiomatic expressions such as 'kick the can down the road' to effectively communicate about climate change. Designed for learners preparing for IELTS, this video provides practical language skills for discussing one of the most pressing global issues.

Takeaways

• 😀 Climate change refers to long-term changes in global weather patterns, with extreme events like storms and floods becoming more common.
• 😀 CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) is a key greenhouse gas contributing to global warming and climate change.
• 😀 Carbon emissions come from activities like burning fossil fuels, and they contribute to rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere.
• 😀 A person's carbon footprint is the amount of CO2 they personally emit through activities such as driving or using electricity.
• 😀 Carbon neutral means balancing out CO2 emissions by actions that absorb or offset the same amount, such as planting trees.
• 😀 Net zero emissions is when the amount of CO2 emitted is fully balanced by measures that absorb or offset it, a goal pursued by many governments.
• 😀 Renewable energy sources, like solar, wind, and hydro, are sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels that can be replenished over time.
• 😀 Advanced collocations, such as 'unsurmountable challenge' and 'urgent need,' can make discussions about climate change more powerful and persuasive.
• 😀 Important verbs in climate change discussions include 'reach a target,' 'implement solutions,' 'become sustainable,' and 'reduce emissions.'
• 😀 Phrasal verbs like 'cut down on,' 'cut back on,' 'phase out,' and 'give up' help convey actions related to reducing climate change impacts.
• 😀 Idiomatic expressions such as 'do your bit,' 'kick the can down the road,' and 'make a dent in the problem' enrich conversations on climate change and highlight different approaches to solving the issue.

Q & A

What is the definition of climate change?

Climate change refers to the long-term alteration in the weather patterns and temperatures of the Earth, resulting in more extreme weather events like storms, flooding, and rising temperatures.

What is CO2 and why is it important in discussions about climate change?

CO2, or carbon dioxide, is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. It is released into the atmosphere through human activities like burning fossil fuels and is a major factor driving climate change.

What does the term 'carbon footprint' mean?

A carbon footprint refers to the amount of CO2 emissions produced by an individual, organization, or activity. It reflects the environmental impact of actions such as using electricity, driving, or flying.

What is the difference between 'carbon neutral' and 'net zero emissions'?

'Carbon neutral' and 'net zero emissions' essentially refer to the same idea: balancing the amount of CO2 emitted with the amount removed from the atmosphere, thereby preventing further climate change. This can be achieved through activities like planting trees to absorb CO2.

What does 'renewable energy' mean and what are some examples?

Renewable energy comes from sources that can be naturally replenished, such as wind, solar, and water. Unlike fossil fuels, these sources can be used repeatedly without running out.

How can you use the expression 'urgent need' in the context of climate change?

'Urgent need' is used to highlight the immediate and critical requirement for action. For example, there is an urgent need to reduce our carbon footprints to mitigate the effects of climate change.

What is the meaning of the phrasal verb 'cut down on' in the context of climate change?

'Cut down on' means to reduce the use of something. In climate change discussions, it refers to reducing actions like the use of fossil fuels, as in 'We need to cut down on coal use.'

What does the idiomatic expression 'kick the can down the road' mean?

'Kick the can down the road' means to delay addressing a difficult problem or making a tough decision. It is often used to describe politicians or governments postponing action on climate change.

What is the significance of the phrase 'to make a dent in a problem'?

'To make a dent in a problem' means to have a small, limited impact on an issue. It often implies that more action is needed to make a substantial difference, as in 'We can't even make a dent in the climate crisis.'

Why is it important to understand advanced collocations when discussing climate change?

Understanding advanced collocations allows you to speak more naturally and persuasively about climate change. For instance, using terms like 'unsurmountable challenge' or 'drastic change' makes your language more impactful and precise.