With the looming challenge of global warming, humans must take the crux of the responsibility. While it is largely the result of increased emissions of carbon dioxide, it is still unsurprising that human activities such as industrialized agriculture, deforestation, and fossil fuel-burning are all contributing factors. As such, it is up to us to recognize these destructive behaviors and take meaningful steps to reverse or prevent them.
One of the most significant contributors to global warming is the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil. Since the Industrial Revolution began, humans have been burning fossil fuels to power transportation, manufacturing, and electricity. The byproduct of burning fossil fuels is carbon dioxide, which traps heat in the atmosphere. This leads to an unnatural increase in global temperatures and extreme weather events. Some countries, such as Canada and Japan, have implemented initiatives to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions through improvements to their energy systems. However, much more needs to be done if humans hope to make meaningful strides in decreasing global warming.
Furthermore, deforestation is a major cause of global warming. When large forests are cut down for urban expansion, agricultural development, and fuel, carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere. Additionally, a reduction in forests causes an imbalance in the Earth’s natural processes such as water and carbon cycling. Without these vital services, the global climate is continually disrupted.
Likewise, industrialized agriculture is also responsible for contributing to global warming. The production of nitrogen fertilizers and increased use of tractors and other heavy machinery increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This is because tractors and other machines run on fossil fuels such as oil and gas, producing harmful emissions. In addition, nitrogen-rich fertilizers can stimulate the growth of carbon-storing soils, trapping more carbon dioxide and contributing to global warming.
It is imperative that humans work to mitigate the effects of global warming and restore vital ecosystems. Fortunately, there are actions we can take now that can help reduce global warming. Individuals can reduce their energy consumption by using energy-efficient appliances and utilizing green transportation options, such as biking or taking public transportation. On a larger scale, countries can cooperate with one another by implementing international agreements that will help reduce emissions. One such example is the Paris Agreement, which involves over 190 countries that have committed to reducing their emissions to meet global climate goals. Governments can also promote renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, which produce much fewer harmful emissions.
Although the effects of global warming are already visible, there is still much work to be done if we hope to protect the planet from further damage. By implementing immediate and effective steps, humans can start to combat the effects of global warming and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
