It is undeniable that our planet is facing a dire environmental crisis and a crucial factor to this challenge is global warming. Caused by the release of greenhouse gases, global warming has deleterious effects on the world – including temperatures trending higher, extreme weather events, and rising sea levels. While much research and efforts have devoted to combat this problem, a greater understanding of the impact of global warming is needed in order to confront this phenomemon and prevent further damage. In this op-ed, the three most notable effects of global warming on our planet will be discussed in order to demonstrate the power and force of this issue.
To start, global warming is triggering an increase in average global temperatures. This phenomenon, known as “thermageddon,” has the potential to disrupt global climate patterns, transforming the climate of the planet. In fact, the average temperature of the planet has now surpassed the 1 degree Celcius mark above pre-industrial levels for the first time in recorded history, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reporting that “average temperatures in March 2021 exceeded 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial average levels, making it the warmest March in the 140 years of global temperature records.” With heat waves continuing to occur more frequently and last longer, the consequences of global warming will be felt by all.
Additionally, global warming is causing an increase in extreme weather events. Unpredictable and dangerous weather patterns can now be seen across the world, resulting in a range of natural disasters. Global warming fuels more severe storms, leading to heavier rainfalls, increased flooding, and extreme winds. Climate change-induced droughts have also increased in intensity and frequency, resulting in shortages of water supply. As a result of this more extreme weather, vulnerable communities are put at a significant disadvantage and socioeconomic disparities are widened. Indebted communities, for example, might struggle to build basic infrastructure to protect them from harm, putting them at an even greater risk due to floods, hurricanes and other cataclysmic weather events.
Lastly, global warming is contributing to the rise of sea levels. This increase is caused by melting ice from glaciers and high areas, leading to coastal inundation, flooding, water contamination and a range of other issues. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel report found that sea levels had risen anywhere from 6 to 18cm over the past century, but over the last two decades, the rate of sea level rise has led to a 30cm increase in sea level in some regions. Furthermore, with the effects of polar ice caps melting, cities with low elevation are at great risk for massive flooding and even permanent submersion.
In conclusion, global warming is having a drastic and tangible effect on our planet. With average temperatures rising, more extreme weather events occurring, and sea levels increasing, it is vital that action is taken to address this global problem. Though global warming is often thought to be a distantproblem, it is threatening the modern day – and drastic measures must be taken in order to prevent further damage. Examples of such steps could include a shift toward renewable energy sources,fighting fossil fuel dependence, and encouraging individuals to reduce their carbon footprint on a personal level. The consequences of global warming are too extensive to ignore – and by taking immediate action, we can make sure that the next generations are able to enjoy our planet in its full and powerful form.
