Global warming is an issue that has been debated for many years. On one hand, some argue that its cause is primarily man-made, and on the other, some say it is natural. The implications of either position could have a long-lasting effect on the environment and economic security of nations around the world.
The proponents of the human-induced climate change argument claim that without restrictions on emissions and carbon output, weather patterns and rising sea levels will continue to damage ecosystems, industry, and entire populations. They point to the significant increase in emissions and temperatures caused by burning fossil fuels, the release of heat trapping chemicals like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, as well as factory farming, deforestation, and urban sprawl.
Those on the other side of the argument have pointed to numerous natural occurrences as the cause of global warming, including intense volcanic activity and solar variability. They cite records from ancient climates as evidence of previous natural warming phases, and that these have contributed more to climate change than man-made activities.
Given the complexity and disparate views around the debate, further research is necessary to confirm or deny the human complicity in global warming. Studies by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change have suggested that evidence shows a direct link between industrial and human activity and global warming. Meanwhile, the third assessment report of the United States Global Change Research Program concluded that the evidence for an anthropogenic influence on global climate change is stronger than ever.
Nonetheless, there is an important caveat to consider: despite the abundance of data and scientific support for man-made cause of global warming, specific determination of its exact role is still not conclusive. While its presence has been made conspicuous, it is unclear as to how large of a role it plays.
What is clear, however, is that global warming has become a ‘hot-button’ issue in political circles worldwide and is fueling an ever increasing energy debate. It is no longer a choice between whether to reduce emissions or not. Until clear evidence clarifies the relation between man-made emissions and global warming, what is provided is a window of opportunity: to lead the global efforts in reducing emissions, adopting renewable resources and technology, and shifting the focus towards a healthier environment.
We can no longer deny the fact that climate change is real, and that its effects are being felt around the world. Mankind can and should use its power and resources to mitigate its adverse effects. It is not just a question of ‘is global warming really man-made?’ but more importantly, ‘what needs to be done about it?’ To dismiss the claims of human culpability would be to ignore the mammoth evidence from scientific studies, stakeholder participation, and media attention. The time for action is now.
