The disturbing reality of human-induced global warming is increasingly becoming an unavoidable fact of life. In recent decades, humans’ exhaustive usage of the Earth’s limited resources and disregard of the ecological systems that support life have driven the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere to unprecedented levels. As a result, average global temperatures have increased steadily, leading to catastrophic long-term consequences such as glacial melting and rising sea levels. Simply put, global warming is the outcome of human activities that cause atmospheric pollution and destruction of the natural environment.
The combustion of fossil fuels — such as oil, coal, and natural gas — is one of the predominant factors driving global warming. When humans burn these non-renewable sources of energy to power our homes, businesses, and transportation systems, they release massive amounts of CO2, methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N20) into the atmosphere. These “greenhouse gases” are efficient at trapping and reflecting solar radiation, leading to an overall warming of the air in the environment.
Furthermore, industrial adoption of new technologies and the resulting increase in production of consumer goods can also contribute to global warming. The manufacturing of technologically-advanced products requires the burning of fossil fuels and harvesting of natural resources to create the necessary materials. This leads to the release of harmful emissions and further destruction of geological features — such as forests — which are essential for absorbing heat-trapping gases and maintaining the natural balance of the environment.
The growing global population is also a major factor driving climate change. The demand for food, shelter, and energy leads to the consumption of more resources, increased needs for industrial production and transportation, and the expanded output of emissions. This has severely impacted the Earth’s capacity to sustain life, accelerating the planetary warming process.
Climate change has already begun to have a direct and significant impact on human activity. Natural disasters, extreme weather conditions, unpredictable climate fluctuation, and failed crops all have a direct effect on the livelihoods and well-being of people around the world. As the rate of global warming continues to accelerate, the effects will only worsen and become increasingly untenable.
The only way to prevent further disaster and deterioration is to actively reduce emissions and consumption of resources while transitioning to renewable sources of energy. Governments and companies must strive to adopt and promote sustainable practices that lead to fewer emissions and less destruction of our natural environment. Additionally, individuals can make a positive difference by living with greater intention and awareness of the things we do and products we purchase. The fate of our planet depends on us taking immediate and lasting action.
