GLOBAL WARMING
Global warming is a serious and pressing problem that impacts almost everything on our planet. Here's a detailed look to help you understand it better:
What is global warming?Global warming is the long-term increase in the Earth's average surface temperature, mainly because of human activities.
These activities release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O) into the atmosphere.
Causes of global warming
Burning FossilFuels: Using coal, oil,and natural gas for energy releases carbon dioxide into the air.Deforestation: Trees take in carbon dioxide; when they are cut down, there is less natural absorption of this gas.
Agriculture: Animals like cows produce methane, which is a strong greenhouse gas.
IndustrialProcesses: Factories and vehicles emit many types of greenhouse gase.
Effects of global warming
Rising Temperatures: The Earth's average temperature has gone up by more than 1.3°C since the start of the Industrial Revolution.Melting Ice and Rising Seas: Glaciers and ice at the poles are melting, leading to higher sea levels and putting coastal areas at risk.
Extreme Weather: There are more frequent and stronger storms, droughts, and wildfires because of the warming climate.
Ecosystem Disruption: Animals and plants are moving to new areas or facing extinction due to changes in their habitats.
Human Impact: Food, water, and health are all in danger, especially in poorer parts of the world.
Recent Insights and Developments
Arctic Lakes: Recent studies show that warming lakes in the Arctic are releasing more methane, a gas that is 25 times more powerful than carbon dioxide.Historical Lessons: A warm period 56 million years ago changed pollination and ecosystems, giving us clues about what could happen in the future.
Legal Action: The International Court of Justice has ruled that not taking action on climate change could break international law.
Tuvalu's Evacuation: The Pacific island nation of Tuvalu is planning to fully evacuate its people because of rising sea levels, symbolizing the issue of climate migration.
Forest Mortality: More lightning and storms are killing trees in tropical forests, which lowers carbon storage and harms biodiversity.
What Can Be Done?
Switch to Renewable Energy: Using solar, wind, and hydroelectric power reduces our use of fossil fuels.
Improve Energy Efficiency: Better insulation, efficient appliances, and smart grids help lower emissions.
Protect Forests: Planting trees and conserving forests absorb carbon dioxide and help keep biodiversity.
International Agreements: The Paris Agreement tries to keep warming under 2°C, but current efforts aren't enough.
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