In recent years, global warming has become a particularly hot topic, leading to increased debate as to its effects on our environment. It is thought that rising temperatures, melting ice caps, shrinking glaciers and more intense weather patterns, are all symptoms of global warming, creating drastic changes to the natural environment. In this op-ed article, an exploration of the ways in which global warming can affect the natural environment is provided.
At the core of global warming is increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide, which traps solar energy from the sun in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a ‘greenhouse effect’. This in turn induces a rise in global temperatures, resulting in an unfavourable shift in natural climatic and weather patterns. Reports indicate that arid areas of the Middle East and Asia, for example, are becoming increasingly arid as a result of global warming, leading to the loss of species, water scarcity and greater frequency of devastating dust storms.
In addition, global warming can decrease levels of airborne moisture due to the more intense sunlight, with the heat waves associated with global warming further exacerbating dry conditions. Such changes can lead to reduced crop yields, dust storms and sandstorms, and more frequent and destructive wildfires. Temperature increases can also affect ocean currents, leading to more frequent andpowerful hurricanes, and other extreme weather events.
As temperatures rise, this can also have devastating consequences for wildlife. For instance, increased ocean temperatures can cause coral to die, altering marine wildlife and their habitats. Similarly, increased temperatures can lead to a reduction of forests, leading to species extinction and taking away essential habitats. Human activity, such as deforestation, can compound the damage global warming inflicts, leading to further instability for wildlife in natural habitats.
However, some evidence suggests that global warming can bring about beneficial effects, at least in the short-term. Increased temperatures can assist in the growth of particular vegetation, which, in turn, can increase crop yields. Britain is likely to benefit from longer growing seasons, which could bring about economic and social benefits, including more available food.
The effects of global warming on the natural environment are undeniable and it is becoming increasingly important to consider ways to reduce its effects. Laws, such as those that regulate air pollution, need to be developed and implemented on an international level, in addition to the implementation of measures that reduce individual reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Additionally, planting more trees,which take in carbon dioxide, can help reduce global warming.
In conclusion, global warming has a considerable impact on the natural environment, ranging from the loss of species, water scarcity and devastating dust storms, to potentially more beneficial effects such as increased crop yields and longer growing season in some regions. Ultimately, it is essential to develop and implement measures to reduce the effects of global warming in order to preserve the natural environment and ensure the sustainability of our planet.
