The debate of whether or not global warming is a real phenomenon has been raging for quite some time now. On one side of the debate, there are those that believe that carbon emissions from fossil fuels are causing the planet to heat up and this is leading to climate change. On the other side are those who remain unconvinced, questioning the science and believing that the effects of man-made global warming are exaggerated.
Much of the evidence used to support claims of global warming comes in the form of data collected over a significant period of time. Taking the average temperature from all around the world, several studies including one from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) have shown a significant increase in temperature when compared with data from 30 years ago.
Research by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has also found that emissions from human activities have been the main cause of the observed warming since the middle of the 20th century. This is supported by data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that shows global average temperature has risen by 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius) over the last century. The rise in temperature is further evidenced by the melting of glaciers, accelerated sea-level rise, more intense heatwaves, droughts and other weather events.
Arguments against global warming being real exist however. Skeptics believe that the phenomenon is exaggerated and that the current warming trend can be explained by natural causes. There has been a natural cycle of warming and cooling, but skeptics say that label this particular period as one of accelerating warming because of man-made carbon emissions is not accurate.
Consequently, this debate is unlikely to be conclusively resolved anytime soon. This is mainly because, as with all scientific debates, there are a range of opinions. There are those, who are convinced that global warming is real, pointing to the statistical evidence as proof. On the other hand, there are those who are unconvinced and who question the data and its interpretation.
This is not to say that definitive measures should not be taken to counter the effects of global warming. The effects of climate change are only going to become more severe if no action is taken. Sea levels will continue to rise, heat waves will become more intense, and the number of extreme weather events is only going to increase. Action needs to be taken now to mitigate such effects, so that future generations can live in a safe and healthy environment.
Therefore, whilst the debate on whether global warming is real or not is ongoing, it is clear that further evidence must be gathered in order to draw any definitive conclusions. In the meantime, governments should be taking proactive steps to reduce carbon emissions and develop strategies to adapt to the changing climate.
