What is the simple definition of global warming? It is one of the most enviromentally pressing issues of the modern world.In the simplest terms, global warming is the average increase in the Earth’s surface temperature, which has been demonstrated to be caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, industrial farming practices, and deforestation. As the planet heats up, the effects are far-reaching, leading to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and a disruption in global ecosystems.
The scientific community acknowledges that the Earth has been warming since the Industrial Revolution. Global warming is due in large part to an increase in the concentrations of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. These gases absorb heat and trap it in the atmosphere creating what is known as the “greenhouse effect”. As the gases accumulate, they cause an overall increase in the Earth’s temperature.
The primary cause of global warming is human-induced burning of fossil fuels such as coal and oil. On a global scale, this has been happening for over a century. Natural sources of greenhouse gases also exist, such as methane produced by livestock, however the levels have increased significantly due to the additional human-caused emissions.
While global warming affects the entire planet, some areas are more vulnerable than others. Many developing countries are particularly vulnerable to the effects of global warming, with populations disproportionately impacted by extreme weather, drought, and desertification. Islands and coastal regions are also especially vulnerable to rising sea levels.
It is important to contextualize global warming in the broader cycle of natural climate change. Natural climate variability over tens of thousands of years can occur due to shifts in the Earth’s orbit, called Milankovitch cycles. Additionally, Earth’s climate has naturally changed in the past due to volcanoes, asteroids, or other events. What makes modern-day climate change distinct is the rapid and unprecedented rate at which greenhouse gases are accumulating in the atmosphere, which is driven largely by human activity.
Fortunately, there are many actions individuals and governments can take to mitigate the effects of global warming and reduce greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. Governments have enacted legislation to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, from individual country movements such as the European Union’s commitment to being carbon-neutral, to global agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement. Consumers can also make personal choices, such as using public transportation, minimizing food waste, and switching to renewable energy sources.
Global warming is a complex, multifaceted issue. While the science can be overwhelming, the fact remains that humans have contributed to the Earth’s warming temperatures, resulting in an unpredictable and ever-changing climate. The onus is on us to take responsibility and take meaningful steps to reduce our emissions and protect our planet.
