Global warming is the gradual increase in the Earth’s average surface temperature due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, preventing it from escaping back into space, creating a “greenhouse effect.”
Causes of Global Warming
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
- Carbon dioxide (CO₂): From burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas) and deforestation.
- Methane (CH₄): From livestock, rice fields, and landfills.
- Nitrous oxide (N₂O): From fertilizers and industrial processes.
- Fluorinated gases: From industrial products and refrigerants.
- Deforestation:
- Reduces the number of trees that absorb CO₂, increasing greenhouse gas concentration.
- Industrialization and Urbanization:
- Increased energy consumption and transportation contribute to higher emissions.
Effects of Global Warming
- Climate Change:
- More frequent and severe heatwaves, storms, and floods.
- Melting Ice and Rising Sea Levels:
- Glacier and polar ice melt leads to coastal flooding and habitat loss.
- Impact on Ecosystems:
- Changes in temperature and rainfall affect plants, animals, and agriculture.
- Health Risks:
- Heat stress, spread of vector-borne diseases, and reduced air quality.
Mitigation Measures
- Reduce fossil fuel consumption and switch to renewable energy sources.
- Increase afforestation and reforestation.
- Promote energy efficiency and sustainable transportation.
- International agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to limit global temperature rise.