Global Warming
Global warming is the ongoing rise of the average temperature of the Earths climate system, an aspect of climate change shown by temperature measurements and by multiple effects of the warming. The term most often refers to the mainly human-caused observed warming since pre-industrial times and its projected continuation, though there were also much earlier periods of global warming. In the modern context the terms global warming and climate change are often used interchangeably, but climate change includes both global warming and its effects, such as changes in precipitation, shifts in storm tracks and emergence of drought.
The largest human influence has been the emission of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. Climate model projections summarized in the report indicate that during the 21st century the global surface temperature is likely to rise a further 0.3 to 1.7 °C (0.5 to 3.1 °F) in response to atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations. These findings have been recognized by the national science academies of all major industrialized nations, and form the scientific basis and guiding principles for most climate change mitigation and adaptation policies.
Recently, the impacts of global warming have been the subject of intense focus and debate. These impacts include the following:
• Rising sea levels, largely due to polar ice melting
• Loss of polar ice caps
• More severe and frequent weather patterns, such as floods and extreme heat events
• Damage to coral reefs and other aquatic ecosystems
• Changes in the agricultural cycle, with a resulting decrease in yields
• Spread of disease, through both water and air
• Displacement of populations
Mitigation of global warming is the effort to reduce or prevent emission of greenhouse gases from human activities, or enhance the capacity of carbon sinks (e.g. forests and oceans) to absorb, for example via reforestation, and climate engineering.
Sources of greenhouse gases due to human activities include:
• Burning of fossil fuel for energy
• Deforestation and other land use changes
• Livestock and agricultural practices
• Fertilizer use
• Industrial processes
• Refrigeration and air conditioning
Adaptation to climate change and global warming refers to efforts to prepare for and adjust to the impacts of climate change, including measures to reduce vulnerability and build resilience. In general, adaptation is more focused on dealing with the effects of climate change, whereas mitigation refers to reducing the causes of climate change.
Societies and communities can adapt to climate change in various ways, including:
• Reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience by developing infrastructure, technology and practices for areas expected to be affected by climate change
• Practicing sustainable development, such as promoting conservation of natural resources, using clean energy sources and renewable resources, and reducing consumption
• Using disaster risk reduction strategies, such as information and early warning systems, to prepare for natural disasters
• Educating citizens, governments, businesses and other stakeholders about the impacts of climate change and global warming, so that society can adjust to the changes.
In addition to these potential physical and social impacts of global warming, it is also important to note the potential economic implications of these changes. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns can lead to decreased crop production, reduced labor productivity, decreased air quality and higher health-care costs. Globally, the economic impacts of climate change are projected to be substantial, but the cost of inaction may be even greater.
Given the complexity and urgency of climate change, a range of strategies must be employed to mitigate its effects. This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving energy efficiency, protecting carbon sinks and implementing adaptation strategies. Governments, businesses, individuals and communities all play an important role in making these changes, and in raising awareness and encouraging action. With concerted effort and effective implementation of strategies, we can help to slow the progress of global warming and protect our planet.
