assignment 2

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Global Warming

Global warming can be defined as the increase in the average temperature of the atmosphere, especially when this change is enough to cause significant changes in the global climate. This term has been synonymous with the enhanced greenhouse effect that implies and increase the level of greenhouse gasses emitted into the earth’s atmosphere that leads to the increase in solar radiations (Cline). Global warming has been a very popular topic in this century, together with its detrimental effects that have been brought to the limelight by the recurring catastrophes such as annihilating droughts, recurring droughts and ravaging cyclones.

Global warming has been declared one of the most alarming environmental issues faced in the globe today. This issue does not just apply to the significant increase in the earth’s temperature but also to a lot more other scenarios. The adverse effects of global warming have been on the increase in the 20th century (Bongaarts). This is evident in the increase of the occurrence of hurricanes and tropical storms that cause massive destruction around the world, animal species losing their natural habitat and increase in endangerment and extinction. Research has indicated that the United States is responsible for approximately 80mper cent of the total amount of fuel consumed annually. Gasses emitted from fossil fuel play a key role in the increase of the levels of global warming (Arnell). In the last three decades alone, the US has been consuming approximately 80 per cent of fossil fuels such as gas, oil, and coal; all of which contribute to the increase in the levels of greenhouse gasses.

Climate change is expected to have long-lasting and far-reaching, devastating consequences for this planet. For some years, the authenticity of global warming was a heated debate in the scientific community. Today, there is an overwhelming consensus of researchers that indicate the reality of global warming and the role of human activities (Cline). In a report tabled by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in 2013, scientists are more than certain of the correlation between global warming and human activities. Global warming is real, and it is caused by human action. One of the most immediate and obvious effects of global warming is temperature increase around the world. The average increase of global temperature has been recorded at 1.4degrees Fahrenheit over the past 100 years.

Extreme weather events have also been associated with global warming. Global warming has led to the extreme changes in weather other than heat or cold extremes. Research indicates that extreme weather events such as droughts, heat waves, rainstorms, and blizzards continue to occur with greater intensity as a result of global warming. The effects of global warming on the planet’s ecosystems have been profound and widespread. Many species of animals and plants have changed their natural habitats as a result of warming temperatures in search of more comfortable temperatures. Warmer temperatures have also resulted in the expansion of disease-causing pathogens that kill of plants and animal species.

The dramatic effects of global warming on human society have been devastating. Agricultural systems have been dealing with a crippling blow. The increase in greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere is negatively affecting plant growth. The plants have become less nutritious. This also affects human health (Bongaarts). The increase in disease-causing elements and chronic conditions such as asthma has been directly associated with global warming. The decrease in quality food production has created havoc in various international food markets. If not controlled, it could lead to food riots, famines and political and civil unrest worldwide.

Nations and other stakeholders around the world are upping their game in the fight against this environmental phenomenon. Their goal is simple; to minimize the level of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere. (Arnell) Carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses are climate’s worst enemy. Everyone should advocate for lesser consumption of fuel. Strategies that can be used to curb the effects of global warming include using renewable energy, investing in energy-efficient appliances, buying better bulbs and driving or operating fuel-efficient vehicles and machinery.

Works Cited

Arnell, NW. "The effect of climate change on hydrological regimes in Europe: a continental perspective." Global Environmental Change (2013): 65.

Bongaarts, J. "Population growth and global warming." Population and Development Review (2013): 89.

Cline, Walter. "The perception and valuation of the risks of climate change: a rational and behavioral blend." Climate Change (2014): 67.