Climate change, caused by global warming, has been an emerging topic of discussion over the past several years as new scientific studies confirm its existence and offer more information about its effects on our planet. However, many people still don’t understand what it is or how it can affect them and their livelihoods, and many still deny that it exists at all. This article will provide you with an overview of climate change and global warming to help you get a better understanding of the issue and decide whether or not you want to learn more about the science behind it.
What is global warming?
Global warming is a gradual increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to rising levels of greenhouse gases. This effect is caused primarily by carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide emissions from industry, agriculture and transportation. Since global warming concerns people all over the world, it’s important for governments to work together to stop its effects.
Human activity is increasing temperature levels
Earth’s average temperature has risen by more than 1 degree Celsius since 1880, and if greenhouse gas emissions continue on their current trajectory, temperatures will rise another 4 degrees by 2100. Already, we are seeing a number of devastating effects—droughts, hurricanes, wildfires—all resulting from warmer temperatures. If we don’t act now to slow global warming down, these impacts could intensify.
How do we know this?
Climate change deniers cite a lack of definitive evidence to support their claims, but climate scientists have been producing research that proves human-caused global warming since as early as 1896. Though we are still in our infancy when it comes to understanding and predicting climate change, there is now near unanimous agreement among scientific bodies worldwide that humans are causing global warming and its associated impacts, such as higher temperatures, rising sea levels and ocean acidification. In 2015 alone—just last year—the U.S.
An effect of climate change – ocean levels rising due to melting ice caps
Rising ocean levels is just one effect global warming and climate change has on our oceans. Because ice caps are melting, ocean water is expanding in volume and causing sea levels to rise. In fact, scientists predict that sea levels could rise over 10 feet by 2100 which would have disastrous effects on coastal cities around the world. According to recent research conducted by Ocean Conservancy, New York City could experience as much as 200 flooding events every year if ocean levels continue to rise as projected.
An effect of climate change – changes in weather patterns
Scientists are careful to distinguish between climate change and weather events. Weather is what happens over a short period of time (days, weeks, or months), whereas climate change is an issue that affects periods lasting many decades. In other words, weather can be rainy today but will turn sunny tomorrow; it’s different with climate change because long-term weather patterns are affected by man-made activities.
Why does it matter?
Climate change is an issue that effects every living thing on earth, and we all need to be aware of it. Our global temperature rises each year; ice caps are melting away and glaciers are vanishing at a very alarming rate. According to recent studies, we’re witnessing more natural disasters than ever before due to climate change. So what can we do about it?
Common misconceptions about climate change
Climate change is real, and there’s no doubt that human activity has contributed to it. However, there are a number of misconceptions about climate change that need to be cleared up so we can tackle it head-on.
