Geographical location affects climate because the amount of sunlight, distance from the sea, and height above sea level all influence weather patterns. Places near the equator are hot and rainy, near the poles are very cold, coastal areas have mild climates, and high mountains are cold and snowy. Earth’s climate zones include the tropical zone (hot and wet), temperate zone (mild with four seasons), and polar zone (cold with snow and ice). Climate change, caused by pollution, deforestation, and burning fossil fuels, is warming the Earth, melting ice, and raising sea levels. We can help by planting trees, reducing waste, and using clean energy.