Mitigation means action taken to reduce the effects of global warming. There are hundreds of such possible actions, from individual to societal, ranging from energy-efficient light bulbs to international treaties for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The 2007 IPCC Mitigation Report contains the most authoritative and exhaustive compendium.

Experts warn that substantial mitigation must occur soon to avoid the worst consequences of global warming. If substantial mitigation does not occur ("Business as Usual" scenario), global warming consequences will likely be disasterous. Developing countries will be hit hardest, but developed countries (including the United States) will not be exempt. For example, see this: "Climate change could devastate US crop yields". There is no safe haven.