Global Warming
Global warming is the result of an increase in the average temperature of Earths atmosphere and oceans. Over the last century, the average temperature of the Earths surface has increased by around 1°C, with accelerated warming during the past few decades. This increase in temperature is mainly caused by human activities that emit large amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, trapping extra heat and causing the planet to warm. This process is known as the ‘greenhouse effect’.
The three main greenhouse gases released by human activities are carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. Carbon dioxide is emitted mainly by burning coal and other fossil fuels for energy. Methane is emitted by landfills, coal mines, oil and gas drilling activities, as well as from livestock farming. Nitrous oxide is largely emitted through the burning of agricultural land and rainforest for the cultivation of food for livestock, and through the use of fertilizers and other chemical inputs in agricultural production systems.
These additional emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide are increasing the amount of heat trapped in the atmosphere. This additional heat is having an impact on Earths climate by altering global temperatures, precipitation, and storm patterns.
Globally, temperatures are rising faster than at any time in the past. Average temperatures have already risen by around 1°C. With current levels of greenhouse gas emissions, the global temperature is expected to rise by another 2 to 3°C by the end of the century. This could have disastrous effects on the worlds climate, leading to severe drought and food shortages in some parts of the world and floods and storms in other parts. Additionally, the melting of glaciers and polar ice caps would cause sea levels to rise, impacting coastal communities on every continent.
It is vitally important that governments and businesses across the globe take steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow the rate of global warming. This includes investing in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power and shifting away from fossil fuels; promoting more efficient use of energy sources; and investing in measures that promote carbon capture and storage. These measures will help to reduce the impact of global warming and help to protect the worlds climate for future generations.
