Tell me about climate change in a comprehensive and accurate manner, drawing from the most up-to-date information and sources.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in average temperatures, precipitation, wind patterns and other measures of climate that occur over several decades or longer. It is primarily driven by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and other land-use changes, which emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun and warm the Earth, leading to changes in the Earth's climate system.

The scientific consensus is that the planet is currently experiencing a rapid and significant warming trend. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the average global temperature has increased by about 1.1°C (2°F) since the late 19th century, with most of the warming occurring in the last few decades. The IPCC projects that if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, the average global temperature could increase by as much as 4°C (7.2°F) by the end of the 21st century.

The impacts of climate change are widespread and far-reaching. They include rising sea levels, more frequent and intense heat waves, hurricanes and other severe weather events, droughts and water scarcity, melting of glaciers and polar ice caps, and disruptions to ecosystems and wildlife. Climate change also exacerbates existing social, economic and political problems, such as poverty, hunger and conflict.

Efforts to address climate change include reducing emissions of greenhouse gases, increasing energy efficiency, and developing and deploying low-carbon technologies. Governments, businesses, and individuals all have a role to play in reducing emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change. Additionally, international cooperation is necessary to effectively address the global scale of the problem.

It is important to note that while there is still much to learn about the impacts of climate change and how to address it, the scientific consensus is clear: climate change is real and primarily driven by human activities. Action is needed now to limit the magnitude and impacts of this global challenge.