Climate change and global warming have become increasingly intense topics of conversation throughout the world, with many people questioning whether or not climate change and global warming are real. Despite scepticism from some, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the notion that climate change and global warming are occurring due to human activities.
Natural fluctuations in the earth’s climate have occurred throughout its long history. However, the current period of rapid global warming is unprecedented, with temperatures surpassing records set over the previous two centuries. Average global surface temperatures have increased by more than 1°C since the start of the twentieth century, and 5 of the past 10 years have seen the highest temperatures recorded since the start of instrumental records in 1880.
This rapid warming could not be explained by natural influences. A major driving factor of global warming is increasing concentrations of climate pollutants, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2) derived from burning fossil fuels such as coal and oil. Thanks to this increased CO2 emissions, the already present greenhouse effect has been amplified, trapping heat and resulting in increased global temperatures.
Studies have shown that climate change is already having a profound impact across numerous sectors. Additionally, sea levels are rising due to the melting of ice sheets and glaciers and this could potentially place hundreds of millions of people at risk due to the threat of flooding. In 2019, the minibus frequent floods brought home the problems of climate change to the inhabitants of India’s Mumbai. Extreme weather has been on the rise over the years, with the number of natural disasters having increased significantly since the beginning of the century.
Nevertheless, some individuals remain sceptical about the veracity of man-made climate change. Critics suggest that humans have had little influence in the changes seen in the climate throughout the planet’s history, but this is simply not true. Many studies have demonstrated a significant link between human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, and the climate crisis we are facing today.
The scientific consensus is clear: climate change is real and its effects are already being felt. It is time for us to take decisive measures to reduce our carbon footprint and ensure a greener more sustainable future. Governments must enact policies that reduce emissions and encourage sustainable practices. Individuals can take steps to reduce their energy consumption, opting for more energy-efficient appliances and technologies and choosing to drive less. We must all come together to protect our climate and our planet.
