Climate change and global warming are two topics entwined together as one. Global warming refers to an increase in the earth’s average surface temperature, an effect of excessive emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants. It is a phenomenon most notably caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. On the other hand, Climate change generally means a shift in the normal pattern of years; bringing major changes to the global environment. Arguments proposing that global warming does not exist have been around since the 1990s, and continue to be made. From debates in favor of one side or the other, to claims of hoaxes or conspiracies, people remain divided—Regardless of the facts that climate scientists have used to prove global warming exists.
Ultimately, global warming is a scientifically grounded phenomenon. The world has witnessed unprecedented warm streaks and rising temperatures across the globe. Evidence gathered by scientists and researchers have offered us a comprehensive outlook of what is currently happening to our climate. One of the most prominent methods of research involves measurements of atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, with readings taken directly from ice cores. Based on these measurements, scientists have estimated that nowadays we have higher levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere than ever before in history. Moreover, various species of plant and animal life have proved to be sensitive to the changing climate patterns, with many species nearing extinction due to unsuitably warm or cold temperatures.
Attempts to deny the existence of global warming are generally rooted in misconceptions. For example, many skeptics claim that the earth is merely going through a natural cooling and warming cycle. However, the truth of the matter is that the massive burning of fossil fuels and other pollutants have only served to accelerate an already existing problem. In fact, the last few decades were the hottest on record, with some scientists claiming the effects are irreversible.
Finding suitable solutions to counter global warming is crucial. Different states and governments have worked together to craft comprehensive strategies in other to make significant improvements. One of the most significant initiatives has been the Paris Agreement, a major treaty signed by 187 countries in 2016. This agreement seeks to reduce global emissions and prevent a catastrophic rise of temperatures. There is also the Green New Deal, a proposal launched in 2019 by members of the US federal Congress, that seeks to eliminate carbon emissions altogether.
The truth behind global warming is crystal clear. We are already seeing increased temperatures and record heatwaves around the world. The effects of global warming are already wreaking havoc on a worldly scale, and if we don’t act quickly and efficiently, the dangers will become unimaginable. We must work together and continue to search for viable and realistic solutions that will ensure the safety of our planet. Any attempts to deny global warming will only hinder the progress that needs to be made to alleviate the effects of this phenomenon.