In recent years, the rise of global temperature is becoming increasingly worrisome, resulting in a variety of natural disasters, from heat waves and extreme heat to droughts and heavy rainfall. So what has contributed to this distressingly rapid increase in global temperatures, often referred to as global warming? The answer may come as a surprise: both human and natural causes are at play in the current crisis.
The effects of human activity on global warming are unmistakable. The burning of fossil fuels, for example, releases a large amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, trapping the sun’s heat and raising the average global temperature. This pollution blocks out heat, leading to a higher planetary temperature and changes in the Earth’s climate. In addition, deforestation and soil degradation have both been found to raise the global temperature, as they reduce the amount of carbon dioxide reduction in the atmosphere, which allows more heat radiation to be trapped.
Yet, while humans are most certainly responsible for much of the world’s current global warming, they are not the only contributing factor. Today’s world also sees the effects of natural causes such as variations in the earth’s orbit, volcanic eruptions, and the sun’s activity. For example, research conducted by the Global Warming Institute has found that the impact of the sun’s activity is estimated to be responsible for up to 25% of global warming. This holds especially true in relation to warming periods that have occurred throughout the earth’s history.
Meanwhile, scientists studying variations in the Earth’s orbit have found that within the last 40,000 years, the planet has been traversing a series of relatively mild cycles, with the most recent corresponding to the current increase in global temperature. According to a new paper from the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), this process would be responsible for more than 20% of the current warming trend.
Altogether, both human and natural causes have contributed to global warming and it is up to us to understand the best strategies for mitigating their effects. Governments and businesses may benefit from implementing policies and technologies that promote renewable energy sources and reduce emissions from combustion. Individuals can take action by reducing their carbon footprints, carpooling, and becoming more energy efficient at home. These are all positive steps that can be taken to help combat our global warming crisis.
Although this situation may seem daunting on first glance, reduced energy consumption, increased energy efficiency, and a greater investment in renewable energy can make all the difference. We must work to understand our current emergency and all of its causes in order to confront it proactively. We have the power to turn the tide, if only we take the time to do it.
