I have previously written a few posts on global warming and its effects on both the environment and the economy. But, you may be wondering what the exact definition of global warming is. I found a great explanation on the World Book at NASA website today (see resource at end of post). Here is an excerpt from the page.
Global warming is an increase in the average temperature of Earth’s surface. Since the late 1800’s, the global average temperature has increased about 0.7 to 1.4 degrees F (0.4 to 0.8 degrees C). Many experts estimate that the average temperature will rise an additional 2.5 to 10.4 degrees F (1.4 to 5.8 degrees C) by 2100. That rate of increase would be much larger than most past rates of increase.
I would like you to read that last sentence again. If we have documented proof that global warming is having an effect on the planet’s ecosystem, what changes will be brought about in the next 100 years?
Most scientists agree that the major cause of global warming is attributed to human activity through the burning of fossil fuels (coal, gas, oil, etc.). There are some scientists who claim it is being caused through natural phenomenon such as increased solar radiation. While that may also be a contributing factor, it’s hard not to believe that we are the main culprits.
In my Possible Environmental Effects of Global Warming post I outlined some potential effects on the arctic, oceans, and wildlife. The page at NASA offers the following insights into environmental impacts.
Continued global warming could have many damaging effects. It might harm plants and animals that live in the sea. It could also force animals and plants on land to move to new habitats. Weather patterns could change, causing flooding, drought, and an increase in damaging storms. Global warming could melt enough polar ice to raise the sea level. In certain parts of the world, human disease could spread, and crop yields could decline.
Through global warming, the surface waters of the oceans could become warmer, increasing the stress on ocean ecosystems, such as coral reefs. High water temperatures can cause a damaging process called coral bleaching. When corals bleach, they expel the algae that give them their color and nourishment. The corals turn white and, unless the water temperature cools, they die. Added warmth also helps spread diseases that affect sea creatures.
Widespread shifts might occur in the natural habitats of animals and plants. Many species would have difficulty surviving in the regions they now inhabit. For example, many flowering plants will not bloom without a sufficient period of winter cold. And human occupation has altered the landscape in ways that would make new habitats hard to reach or unavailable altogether.
Adaptation and evolution can accommodate changes in the environment. However, such processes usually take thousands of years to occur. With the rate of global warming predicted, their isn’t that much time available.
It all boils down to everyone doing their part to reduce global warming. Global warming is a worldwide issue that affects everyone.
Our dependence on fossil fuels could lead to our ultimate demise. Cleaner, renewable sources of energy must be more fully incorporated into our current lifestyles. Even little changes in everyone’s energy consumption habits can produce big results. Consider recycling, riding public transportation, switching to compact fluorescent bulbs, or any other small change you can make. It can and will help.
Do you have a comment on global warming? If so, please feel free to leave your thoughts in the box below. Sharing your insight could help others.
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Resource used in this post: Mastrandrea, Michael D., and Stephen H. Schneider. “Global warming.” World Book Online Reference Center. 2005. World Book, Inc. http://www.worldbookonline.com/wb/Article?id=ar226310.
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the effect of Global Warming these days is even worst. i think every government should pass stricter laws on Carbon Emissions. we should also concentrate more on renewable energy sources and avoid fossil fuels.
Global Warming and Climate Change is the biggest environmental issue that we face these days. the long term effects of these environmental changes to a nations economy is quite damaging. there would be a shortage in food supply as well as on water supply too.