Global Warming Explained
Collected by: Janet Schlarbaum
By Jonathon Hardcastle
Global warming is thought of as one of the biggest threats to world security in modern times, and it is arguably already taking its toll in our weather system. By a combination of natural cyclical progression, and the impact of human behaviour and activity over the last century, the Earth is steadily seeing the effects of the global warming phenomenon. But what exactly is global warming, and exactly what impact could it have on our environment?
Global warming can be defined as an overall gradual increase in world temperature over time. This is measured by averaging Earth and Ocean temperature, and has shown a steady upwards trend over recent decades. Furthermore, it is thought that over the last half a century, this has been a result of human civilisation and industrialisation. One of the major contributors to global warming is what is known as greenhouse gas, which comprises largely of carbon dioxide from general human activity.
Global warming as a process is thought to be highly devastating in terms of its effect on the climate. ‘Climate change’ is a phrase which is often use in association with global warming, and it has potentially catastrophic consequences for the world in which we live. ‘Climate change’ also covers global cooling, which can also occur as a result of human activity and greenhouse gases, and reflects a substantial change in the world’s climate, which could change our habitat beyond recognition. This could be characterised by unusual weather patterns, resulting in more frequent natural disasters, which could in turn lead to political and social chaos in the decades and centuries to come.
There are a number of international political treaties which have been set up to change the progress of global warming, although their tangible upshots still remain to be seen. Through political cooperation, it is hoped that environmental targets can be met on an international scale, to make a real difference to the environment. However, at a personal level, there is significant scope for helping, rather than hindering the world in which we live, including recycling household waste, and reducing personal carbon emissions.
Global warming is arguably one of the biggest threats to human civilisation, and it is something which requires a drastic change in lifestyle to reverse. However, with a personal and political impetus, it is hopeful that the damage done to the planet can be reversed for future generations to enjoy.
Global Warming, It is Not an Issue
Posted by: Janet Schlarbaum
By Dr. Mark Clayson
Are you concerned about global warming? You should be. Evidence is now not in dispute. And we are to blame.
The threat of global warming has become even more apparent recently as scientists have stated categorically that it is man made. The effects of global warming will include more extreme weather and floods. This will include a number of countries throughout the world including Britain.
Average temperatures could rise by as much as four degrees centigrade by the end of the century. This would have a number of effects including melting of the ice caps and a rise in sea level by 17 inches. In Britain alone this could cause flooding in areas stretching to London.
Two thousand five hundred scientists have come up with this evaluation after a meeting brought together by the United Nations. They have analyzed weather patterns over past years and have been able to give a forecast for the next century. There was a 90% chance that man himself was to blame for the increase in global warming.
Global warming will cause more rains and storms plus hotter weather. The melting of the ice caps will increase the sea levels leading to flooding in many countries. Suddenly areas of places such as Spain and France will become too hot for habitation. Many poor regions in the world will be flooded and this will cause not only loss of life but also a reduction in global food production. The other effect is that there may be mass immigration to other countries.
