Global Warming a topic which has many scientists, politicians, celebrities, and everyday people talking. Opinion and controversy surrounding global warming can be poles apart and are sometimes very divided. In this article we would like to discuss some facts about global warming.
The most obvious about global warming is that the earth is getting warmer and warmer. More specific the temperatures near the surface of the earth and the temperatures in our oceans are rising rapidly. Since the 90s, there have been 10+ years that have been warmer than any others in recorded history.
What causes global warming.
The greenhouse effect is said to be the main culprit for global warming. The greenhouse effect causes certain vapors and gases to form a blanket/shield that covers and warms the earth. This shield is made up of water vapor, methane, carbon dioxide and a variety of other trace gases.
The greenhouse effect itself is not in discussion. No disputes or controversy exists on this point because the greenhouse effect is recognized as an normal beneficial process. If all the energy that reaches the earth was reflected right back into space, no life could have been possible on planet earth. The earth would be a cold and icy place without this blanket.
However, global warming is not all good. It can cause the earth’s covering to increase in density. With a denser blanket over the earth, less of the heat is reflected back into space. This upsets the delicate balance between heat and cold that is usually maintained on earth. It traps more heat inside the earth’s atmosphere.
Although there are scientists and politicians who argue against it, there seems to be a shift in the climate in recent years. Climate change to a warmer climate is the result of excessive global warming.
There has been an global rise in temperature of a little over one degree celsius during the last 100 years. The figure for the next 100 years century is expected to be more like seven degrees. It is this type of global warming that can lead to dire consequences if left unchecked.
Man made global warming
A lot of the global warming happening now is man made. People, their activities, and their industries have caused global warming to reach to the levels it has today. Burning fossil fuels, powering electrical plants with coal, and irresponsible land use can all contribute to global warming. Carbon dioxide is produced by these activities, and global warming is perpetuated.
Effects of global warming
Global warming is resulting in rising ocean levels and increased risk of flooding. There are more powerful storms. Heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense. Extended droughts could severely damage the world’s food crops and cause shortages of drinkable water. Extinction of species could become a problem because of changing habitats and the suitability of the climate for the animal.
What can be done about global warming
Global warming can probably not be reversed, but there are ways to slow the process down. Each person should take responsibility for doing their part in protecting the earth’s environment. With the will power of people,politicians and countries, the emissions of greenhouse gases can be cut drastically. This will give the earth a chance to regain its natural balance of temperature. Knowledge about global warming is one step towards a healthier planet. So start cutting back on fossil fuels and begin investing in renewable energy sources to cut down global warming.