Fact check: Is climate change caused by humans?

1. Summary of the results

1. Summary of the results

The scientific consensus strongly indicates that human activities are the primary driver of observed climate change. Multiple lines of evidence support this, including:

• A 47% increase in CO2 levels since the Industrial Revolution
• Current CO2 levels are the highest in 2-3 million years
• Earth's temperature has risen 1.2°C above pre-industrial levels
• 97-99% of peer-reviewed scientific literature confirms human-induced climate change

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question oversimplifies a complex system. Important additional context includes:

• Natural climate variations have always existed and continue to play a role
• The Earth has experienced previous warming periods throughout its history
• While humans are the primary driver, multiple factors influence climate, including:

Solar activity

Volcanic eruptions

Natural carbon cycle variations

Ocean current patterns

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The question "is climate change caused by humans?" presents a false binary choice that could lead to misunderstanding. Several stakeholders benefit from different narratives:

Pro-human cause emphasis:

• Renewable energy companies and investors
• Environmental organizations seeking funding and influence
• Carbon credit trading markets
• Green technology manufacturers

Skepticism emphasis:

• Fossil fuel companies like ExxonMobil and Shell
• Coal industry organizations
• Heavy manufacturing industries
• Countries heavily dependent on fossil fuel exports

The reality is more nuanced than either extreme position suggests, though the scientific evidence strongly supports human influence as the dominant factor in recent climate change.