Nowadays, climate change and global warming are topics that many people are concerned about — and for good reason. A recent NOAA study found that the average global temperature is on the rise, with temperatures in 2020 being approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius hotter than the average from 1981-2010. In the face of this news, the question of why we need to worry about global warming is top of mind for many.
At its core, global warming is the result of rising levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which trap heat and increase temperatures. These gases include carbon dioxide, which is produced largely as a result of burning fossil fuels through processes such as electricity generation, transportation, and industrial activities. The increased concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere affects the Earth’s climate by trapping heat and consequently raising the temperature.
Global warming can influence many areas of life, from the environment to civilization. On the environmental side, warmer temperatures can adversely affect the health of forests, oceans, and animals, disrupting the balance of food chains and ecosystems. This can lead to a decrease in food and water supplies and a greater risk of habitats being destroyed due to increases in drought, floods, and other extreme weather events. On the civilization side, global warming can also contribute to sea levels rising, meaning coastal regions and cities may be exposed to floods, erosion, and other related damage, leading to displacement and even extinction of species living there.
At the same time, certain measures can be taken to help mitigate global warming and its effects or take advantage of them. For example, switching to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power is a common method of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Alternatively, investing in carbon offsetting or geoengineering methods such as reforestation or cloud-whitening can help reduce the amount of carbon in the atmosphere. Additionally, adapting to climate change, such as by finding ways to cope with an altered landscape, can also be beneficial.
It is clear why global warming warrants concern — it carries both environmental and socioeconomic risks, with the potential to bring about far-reaching consequences. Climate change can bring about more frequent natural disasters and decrease food and water supplies, while also potentially making some regions uninhabitable due to rising sea levels. The key, then, is to take action. Governments, businesses, and individuals all have a role to play in helping to reduce emissions and mitigate the effects of global warming. Awareness of the risks and possible solutions can help us make informed decisions and take meaningful steps towards a more sustainable future.
