The discussion on whether global warming is caused by human activities has been a long-standing debate. Scientists confirm that the Earth has been warming steadily since pre-industrial times, however, there is still disagreement over the extent to which humans play a role in exacerbating the problem. While some studies point toward human activities such as burning fossil fuels, excessive production of greenhouse gases, and deforestation, as being major contributors to the warming planet, other research suggests that natural fluctuations or a combination of both are determining factors.
For hundreds of years, humans have been releasing greenhouse gas emissions due to burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, natural gas and petrol, as well as through deforestation and soil degradation. According to the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere have increased dramatically since the Industrial Revolution and are considered to be an important driver of global warming. Additionally, studies have revealed that humans have caused the Earth’s temperature to rise by 1.5 degrees Celsius since 1880, and are largely to blame for increasing the Earth’s temperature by a further 0.5 degrees in the last three decades. This is well above the limit set by the Paris Agreement, which determined that the world should strive to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century.
Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions, mainly resulting from burning fossil fuels, are the leading cause of global warming; accounting for 78% of the world’s total emissions. These emissions trap heat in the atmosphere and cause a steadily rising global temperature. As a result of these changes, extreme weather events, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels are becoming more frequent. According to the World Meteorological Organization, the world has already witnessed some of the most extreme weather conditions since records began in the 1950s, including the 2016 heat wave in India which killed more than 2,500 people.
On the other hand, there are some researchers who have argued that natural processes cause global warming, rather than human activities. For example, fluctuations in the Earth’s orbit and changes in the amount of energy from the Sun can cause variations in the Earth’s climate. These natural fluctuations can be partially responsible for periods of global warming and cooling on Earth. Additionally, some overlap exists between certain human activities and the natural causes; for example, the burning of fossil fuels has caused the atmosphere to become even more susceptible to solar radiation.
In a final analysis, although research suggests that human activities are the primary cause of global warming, it is likely that natural processes are also playing a role. As such, it is essential that decisions made by world leaders and policy makers take into account both natural fluctuations as well as human activities. To mitigate the effects of human-caused climate change, it is essential that governments and businesses implement policies and practices to reduce emissions and deforestation. The development of renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and the improvement of agricultural methods are all essential steps to mitigate the effects of global warming.
Ultimately, the debate surrounding the issue of whether humans are the primary cause of global warming is far from over. It is essential that policy makers and citizens alike continue to engage and educate themselves on the issue in order to be part of the solution. Let us strive to protect and preserve the planet for future generations by taking immediate action, and working together to ensure a greener and healthier future.
