Global warming
Global warming refers increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s climate system, primarily due to the buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. It is a significant aspect of climate change, which encompasses broader changes in temperature patterns, precipitation, sea levels, and other factors that affect the Earth’s climate.
About global warming:
Greenhouse Effect: The greenhouse effect is a natural process where certain gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), trap heat from the sun, preventing it from escaping back into space. This natural effect is essential for maintaining a habitable temperature on Earth.
Human Activities and Enhanced Greenhouse Effect: Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation, industrial processes, and agricultural practices, have been increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This enhanced greenhouse effect intensifies the trapping of heat, leading to global warming.
Climate Impacts: Global warming has various impacts on the Earth’s climate system and ecosystems. These include rising temperatures, melting glaciers and ice caps, sea-level rise, changes in precipitation patterns, more frequent and severe weather events (such as heatwaves, storms, and droughts), shifts in ecosystems and biodiversity, and disruptions to agricultural systems.
Causes and Consequences: The burning of fossil fuels for energy production and transportation is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation also plays a significant role by reducing the Earth’s capacity to absorb CO2 through photosynthesis. The consequences of global warming can be far-reaching, affecting human societies, ecosystems, and economies worldwide.
Mitigation and Adaptation: Mitigation refers to efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and stabilize the climate. This includes transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, adopting sustainable land-use practices, and promoting changes in consumption patterns. Adaptation involves adjusting to the changing climate conditions to reduce vulnerabilities and build resilience in communities, infrastructure, and natural systems.
Addressing global warming requires collective action at international, national, and individual levels. The Paris Agreement, an international climate accord, aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.