Global Warming:
Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature. It is primarily caused by the accumulation of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the Earth's atmosphere, which trap heat from the sun and prevent it from escaping back into space. The main contributors to global warming are human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which release carbon dioxide (CO2) and other GHGs into the atmosphere.

Greenhouse Effect:
The greenhouse effect is a natural process that plays a vital role in regulating Earth's temperature. It occurs when certain gases in the Earth's atmosphere absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, trapping heat and warming the planet. Without the greenhouse effect, Earth would be too cold to support life as we know it. However, human activities have intensified the greenhouse effect, leading to global warming.

Key Points:
1. Enhancement of the Greenhouse Effect: Human activities have significantly increased the concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, leading to an enhanced greenhouse effect. This intensification of the natural process is primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial processes, and agricultural practices.

2. Consequences of Global Warming: Global warming has far-reaching consequences for the environment, ecosystems, and human societies. It leads to rising sea levels, more frequent and severe heatwaves, melting ice caps and glaciers, shifts in precipitation patterns, increased intensity of storms, and disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity.

3. Climate Change: Global warming is a major driver of climate change, which refers to long-term shifts in weather patterns, including temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and more. Climate change affects numerous aspects of life on Earth, including agriculture, water resources, public health, and the economy.

4. Mitigation and Adaptation: To address global warming and its impacts, both mitigation and adaptation strategies are necessary. Mitigation involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions through transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing sustainable practices. Adaptation focuses on preparing for the unavoidable consequences of global warming by building resilient infrastructure, developing climate-resilient agriculture, and implementing effective disaster management strategies.

5. International Cooperation: Addressing global warming requires global cooperation and concerted efforts from all nations. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement are examples of international agreements aimed at mitigating global warming and supporting adaptation measures.

In conclusion, global warming is the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature, primarily caused by human activities that enhance the natural greenhouse effect. It has severe consequences for the planet and necessitates both mitigation and adaptation strategies to minimize its impacts and ensure a sustainable future for humanity.