The debate over the extent to which greenhouse gases (GHGs) are contributing to global warming has been ongoing for decades. On one side of the argument, some experts point to the role of GHG emissions as an important factor driving climate change, while on the other side, others deny their relevance and instead emphasize the role of natural cycles and non-man-made factors. The truth lies in the middle, as GHG emissions do influence the planet’s temperature but to what degree is a complex topic requiring careful consideration.
The effects of GHGs on the environment are already visible. A recent report published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) observed that the planet’s average temperature has risen by 1.2°C over the past century. While the sun’s energy and the planet’s albedo (the amount of radiation reflected by the Earth back into space) play a role, the team of researchers concluded that the “human-caused emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases since 1975…account for the majority of warming since then.” In other words, GHG emissions are driving the temperature of the planet higher.
At the same time, the IPCC’s report noted how the warming trend appears to be accelerating. This is likely due to the greater variability in energy levels observed as the Earth’s temperature rises; the planet’s ability to balance on its own the energy absorbed from the sun and emitted back into the atmosphere diminishes as temperatures increase. This is especially concerning for coastal and Arctic communities that are already feeling the impacts of rising sea levels and melting glaciers.
The relationship between GHG concentrations in the atmosphere and climate change is complex. For instance, several other factors are also at play, including changes to the Earth’s orbit that occur over an extended period and variations in the sun’s output. Thus, it is difficult to ascertain with absolute certainty the extent to which human-created emissions are responsible for global warming.
At the same time, it should be acknowledged that the increase in carbon dioxide emissions since the Industrial Revolution has been dramatic, with a doubling of atmospheric concentrations since the 1950s. While natural sources also contribute GHGs to the atmosphere, humans’ burning of fossil fuels and emissions from agriculture, as well as other human activities, continue to be major drivers. As such, measures to reduce GHG emissions at the local and global level must act as a priority.
From the rich variety of climate change prevention strategies available, governments and corporations around the world have started to collaborate on actions such as switching to renewable energy sources, developing energy-efficient buildings, implementing carbon taxes, or introducing trade-able permit systems. Positive outcomes have already been seen, with several nations reporting reduced GHG emissions in recent years.
Although the emission reduction numbers are encouraging, the process of dealing with climate change is far from easy. At the same time, we must accept the fact that GHGs do have an influence on global warming, and that humans have a responsibility to mitigate the impacts of our behavior on the planet. As such, continuing to look for ways to reduce our carbon footprint is an essential part of taking meaningful action to tackle climate change.
