Global warming is the gradual increase in the average temperature of the Earths atmosphere and oceans, attributed to the greenhouse effect caused by an increase in the concentrations of certain gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide. Global warming is becoming an increasingly pressing issue in our world today, with its effects already causing extreme weather events, sea level rise, and heating up of the ocean and other bodies of water. It is having a severe impact on the biosphere, leading to the extinction of species, and reducing natural habitats for many others.
The emission of carbon dioxide into the air is one of the leading causes of global warming. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas, meaning it traps heat in the Earths atmosphere, which results in the warming of the Earth. Carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere through the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil. Although there are natural processes that produce carbon dioxide, such as volcanic eruptions, the level of human-caused emissions is alarming and far exceeds natural processes.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its fifth assessment report in 2014, where it concluded that global warming is unequivocal and human activities are very likely the largest cause of observed warming since the middle of the 20th century. The report also predicted that heat waves, floods and other extreme weather events will become more frequent and more intense as global warming continues.
In response to the issue, governments around the world have adopted emissions targets and climate policies aimed at reducing the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. For example, many nations have adopted emissions trading schemes, where companies can purchase carbon offsets in order to reduce their overall emissions. Other climate policies include support for renewable energy sources and improved energy efficiency measures.
The effects of global warming are being felt in many different ways. Sea levels are rising due to thermal expansion and melting of land-based glaciers, leading to increased flooding in coastal regions. Rising temperatures are allowing some organisms to move into new territory, resulting in an imbalance in ecosystems. Animal and plant extinction rates are also increasing as their natural habitats are destroyed by climate change.
The world needs to reduce the level of carbon dioxide emissions and make a global effort to combat global warming. Governments need to support and encourage investment in renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and geothermal. Consumption patterns also need to change, with individuals and countries reducing their consumption of fossil fuels and adopting a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle. Only through a global effort will we have a chance of addressing this issue.
