Undeniably, global warming and climate change stand as the two greatest issues that will ever arise during the 21st century, bar none. Such events carry huge ramifications in regard to our ecosystem, society, economy as well as other aspects in our lives. In this article, we shall define global warming and climate change, their driving factors, effects, and probable solutions, all in simplistic terms.
What is Global Warming?
Global warming describes the sustained rise in the average temperature of the Earth’s surface, which is a result of human activity mainly the combustion of fossil fuels. This activity leads to the emission of greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O), all of which capture heat and leads to heating of the earth’s surface.
What is Climate Change?
A more comprehensive constitution of climate change is defined as the alteration of climate that occurs on a more permanent basis, and can manifest through precipitation, sea level changes, and distribution of weather events. Global warming is one of the key drivers of climate change, however other factors include deforestation and a barrage of other industrial activities also cause changes in the climate.
Causes of Global Warming and Climate Change
1.Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas in order to generate energy is the greatest culprit in greenhouse gas emissions.
- Transportation: When it comes to emissions, automobiles are a big culprit which releases CO₂ and other emissions into the atmosphere.
- Industries: Industrial emissions are rich in CO₂ and CH₄.
2. Deforestation
The expansion of agriculture and cities contributes to the loss of trees that would otherwise sequester CO₂, thus its levels increase in the atmosphere.
3.Agriculture
Meat production emits methane, a greenhouse gas that is strong. In addition, the application of synthetic fertilizers results in some nitrous oxide being released.
4.Waste Management
Methane is released during waste decomposition in garbage dumps, while incorrect waste disposal is also a source of additional CO₂ emissions .
5.Energy Production
It is the use of coal plants and other fossil fuels that cause the greatest amount of global warming.
Effects of Global Warming and Climate Change
1.Average Temperature Increase
Average temperature around the world has continued to grow alongside the increase heat waves and altered climate patterns.
2.Thawing Polar Ice, ice caps and glaciers
- The rising sea levels are as a result of melting ice caps and glaciers.
- Cities located near the oceans are in peril from flooding and erosion.
3.Increased Storm Patterns
- There has been a rise in the incidence of hurricanes, cyclones and droughts.
- Some areas experience excessive rainfall causing floods while some areas experience little or no rain at all.
4.Effect on Biodiversity
- Struggling species are losing the fight to keep up with increased temperatures.
- Due to rising sea levels as well as deforestation the loss of habitats.
5.Effects on Human Health
- Employees are prone to heat stroke when heat waves occur.
- With the changing climate, the transmission of diseases such as malaria and dengue is more prevalent.
6.Economic Consequences
- The unpredictability of weather elements leads to effects on agriculture which in turn reduces the availability of food.
- Increasing instances of weather-related disasters result in loss of various financial assets.
How to Combat Global Warming and Climate Change?
1.Renewable Energy Source
- Replace hydrocarbon sources with solar, wind and/or hydro energy.
- Promote the use of electric cars and public transport.
2.Increase Tree Growth
- Replanting trees in harvested areas and planting where there are none can absorb quite a lot of CO².
- Manage and curb deforestation of existing forests to ensure diversity.
3.Waste Management
- Present composting and recycling as other waste utilization alternatives.
- Limit the use of plastics and replace them with those made of biodegradable materials.
4.Efficient Use of Energy
- Choose energy saving technologies and equipment.
- Reduce energy usage by improving insulation of homes and buildings.
5.Influence and Teach
- Address climate change risk through awareness campaigns or educational outreach.
- Favor policies that cut down on carbon emissions.
6.Teamwork on Global Issues
- Organizations of nations must come together to achieve the global target set for climate change.
- Strive to support treaties like the Paris Agreement that set out to limit global average temperatures increase.
Addressing Climate Change with the Help of Technologies
1.Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)
Technologies that prevent and mitigate CO² emissions into the atmosphere.
2.Green Innovations
- The plot to overshadow the development of eco-friendly goods and solutions.
- Focus on drones and AI for monitoring deforestation and conservation of wildlife.
3.Sustainable Agriculture
Innovations to improve farming methods to lessen methane emissions and boost food production.
Conclusion
Global warming along with climate change are problems that pose immediate challenges. Understanding causes or effects of climate change is the first step towards addressing the problem. The future of climate change rests not just on an individual endeavours, but action plans aimed at regional & global levels as well – we owe it to our posterity to do so.