Trustworthy answers: Is global warming real?

Is global warming real? Get the science-backed answer, debunk common climate myths, and see how healthy forests support long-term business climate strategy.

August 29, 2025

Yes, global warming is real. Despite decades of scientific research, climate change remains one of the most misunderstood issues of our time. Conflicting headlines and misinformation continue to cloud public understanding, leaving many unsure of what's fact and what's fiction.

Over half of global GDP is dependent on nature. Evidence of climate change is already disrupting operations, supply chains, and long-term planning. Understanding the science is not optional, as it’s a foundation for risk management and sustainable business practices.

In this article, we unpack 7 of the most common climate myths and explain why addressing them is critical for future-ready business strategy.

Myth 1. The climate has always changed naturally

A common myth suggests today’s warming is just another part of Earth’s natural climate cycle.

It’s true that the planet has gone through ice ages and warm periods over millions of years, but those natural patterns can’t explain the unprecedented speed and scale of warming we see today.

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global temperatures reached 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels in 2023. And in 2024, NOAA confirmed it was the warmest year on record since global temperature tracking began in 1850.

Today, climate change refers to the warming caused by human activity, primarily from burning fossil fuels for energy and transport, deforestation from agriculture and logging, and land use changes tied to urban expansion.

These activities have accelerated global warming at a rate not seen in at least 2,000 years.

An image of a graph showing the rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide alongside global temperature increases.

Myth 2. Cold weather means global warming isn’t real

While cold days and winter storms still occur, they don’t disprove global warming. This confusion often comes from conflating weather (varies daily) with climate (reflects long-term patterns over decades).

Seasonal changes remain part of Earth’s natural rhythm. However, global warming is raising the planet’s average temperature and disrupting established climate systems. In some regions, this disruption can even lead to unusual cold snaps, despite the broader warming trend.

Temporary cold spells do not reverse global warming. Businesses that recognise this are better prepared to respond to climate-related disruptions and take steps that also help the environment.

Myth 3. Scientists question climate change

One of the most persistent myths about climate change is that scientists are still debating its cause. However, the scientific community overwhelmingly agrees that climate change is real and human activities the primary driver.

Multiple studies, including findings from the IPCC, show that over 99 per cent of peer-reviewed climate scientists agree there is scientific proof of human-caused global warming.

Yet misinformation continues to circulate. Spreading doubt undermines informed decision-making and slows meaningful progress.

When companies build sustainability strategies on uncertainty rather than evidence, complying with regulations or building long-term stakeholder confidence can become more difficult.

Myth 4. Climate models are unreliable

Some argue that climate models are too uncertain to trust. However, climate models are based on decades of observed data, peer-reviewed science, and tested physical principles.

Today, researchers, governments, and industries widely use them to assess risk and prepare for future climate impacts.

Climate models simulate how Earth’s systems respond to different levels of greenhouse gas emissions. They factor in interactions between the atmosphere, oceans, land, and ice, and are regularly tested against historical data to ensure accuracy.

As climate models improve, they remain essential for planning strategies that protect communities and help save the Earth from more severe climate impacts.

Recent analysis from NASA confirms that climate models have accurately projected long-term global warming trends. Several models developed as far back as the 1970s have closely aligned with observed temperature increases in the decades since.

Myth 5. Heat waves and wildfires are just part of a natural cycle

Heat waves and wildfires have always occurred, but climate change is increasing their frequency and severity. Warmer temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and deforestation are creating the conditions for longer fire seasons and more destructive events in regions that were previously less affected.

High temperatures can also trigger rapid-onset droughts and wildfires, placing additional pressure on forest ecosystems and agricultural production.

These risks carry clear business implications.

A United Nations report finds that more than 70 per cent of the global workforce, 2.4 billion people, are now exposed to high heat risk, leading to nearly 23 million work-related injuries each year. Improving workplace climate resilience could prevent up to USD361 billion in annual losses.

Myth 6. Wildlife will just adapt to climate change

It’s a common misconception that wildlife can simply adapt to rising temperatures and changing environments. In reality, the pace and severity of climate change are pushing many species beyond their limits.

Mass extinction events, defined as the loss of at least 30 per cent of species, have occurred multiple times throughout Earth’s history, often driven by complex environmental changes such as global warming.

Today, climate change is again accelerating habitat loss, sea level rise, and extreme temperatures that threaten both land and marine life. Polar bears face a growing risk from shrinking sea ice, while ocean warming and reduced oxygen levels are placing marine species under increasing stress.

As a result, extinction rates today are 50 to 100 times higher than natural levels. Wildlife cannot adapt fast enough, highlighting the urgent need for climate solutions that protect ecosystems.

Myth 7. Renewable energy is too expensive to be practical

The idea that renewable energy is unaffordable is outdated. Technologies today, like solar and wind, are widely accessible and among the most economical new power sources.

In 2023, 382 gigawatts of renewable power generation capacity produced electricity at a lower cost than the cheapest new fossil fuel-based capacity, according to IRENA. These projects represented 81 per cent of all renewable capacity growth and are expected to save an estimated USD409 billion over their lifetimes.

Clean energy allows businesses to reduce emissions while also gaining cost stability and avoiding the unpredictability of fuel prices.

As renewable costs continue to fall, their affordability will be key to expanding global energy access and meeting climate goals by the end of the decade.

Scientific evidence confirms global warming is real

Years of scientific evidence show that global warming is real and closely linked to human activity. Staying informed can lead to better choices and a smaller carbon footprint for businesses.

Drivers of global warming include:

Observed warming: Global surface temperatures have risen significantly since the late 19th century, with recent years consistently ranking among the hottest on record.
Greenhouse effect: Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane trap heat in Earth’s atmosphere. Human activities, especially burning fossil fuels, are intensifying this effect.
Multiple data sources: Satellite observations, ground-based monitoring, and ocean temperature records all point to the same conclusion: the planet is warming.
Humans as the main driver: Climate models that include only natural factors cannot explain the level of warming we’re seeing. The rise in emissions from human activities aligns closely with observed temperature increases.
Irreversible changes: Some impacts, such as glacial melt and sea-level rise, may continue for centuries. Taking action now is critical to slowing these effects and limiting long-term damage.

An image showing climate-related ecosystem impacts.

How businesses can drive real climate action through forests

Businesses have a unique opportunity to lead on climate by rethinking how they source and manage natural resources. Forests are one of Earth's most powerful tools, regulating temperatures and protecting biodiversity.

Sourcing responsibly is one of the most direct ways companies can make a difference. Choosing materials certified by the Forest Stewardship Council® ensures forest products are harvested sustainably and transparently.

To support climate and business goals:

Use FSC®-certified materials in packaging, products, and procurement.
Invest in forest conservation to reduce emissions and strengthen ecosystem resilience.
Plan with climate data to align sourcing decisions with long-term sustainability targets.
Collaborate with suppliers to expand the use of certified materials and align sustainability practices across your value chain.
Advocate for strong forest protection policies and engage in industry initiatives promoting sustainable resource use.

Companies that act now can lead the shift toward a more sustainable, forest-positive economy. Grounding decisions in climate change facts can help guide responsible choices that support both environmental and business goals.

Make climate action part of your strategy with FSC

The science is clear, and so is the opportunity for action: Global warming is real. From reducing emissions to protecting biodiversity, businesses play a role in building climate resilience.

FSC helps turn environmental commitments into measurable outcomes. Through responsible sourcing and tools like Verified Impact, companies can confidently track progress toward climate and ESG goals.

Explore how FSC’s forest-based solutions can strengthen your sustainability strategy and help answer today’s biggest environmental questions with real, credible action.

Additional resources

To explore the science behind climate change and its impacts, consider resources from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). They offer accessible data on temperature trends, sea level rise, and extreme weather events.

You can also review reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which synthesises decades of peer-reviewed research to guide global climate strategies.