Global warming refers to the continued increase of the earth's temperature. Some things that have contributed to the earth's increase in temperature have been natural, like volcanic eruptions and changes in the orbit of the earth. However, other human activities like burning fossil fuels and cutting down trees have also contributed to global warming. Burning fossil fuels, like coals and oils, release gases that trap heat in our atmosphere. The more gases that are released, the more the earth's temperature increases. This increase in temperature has a negative global impact.
Function
Greenhouse gases are gases that trap the heat that would normally be released into space. This happens because the gases absorb infra-red radiation and trap it in our atmosphere. Because this heat does not get released, it stays in the atmosphere, resulting in an increase of the earth's temperature. These greenhouse gases include methane, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxides and chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's). These are by products of burning fossil fuels. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, "If greenhouse gases continue to increase, climate models predict that the average temperature at the Earth's surface could increase from 3.2 to 7.2ºF above 1990 levels by the end of this century."
Warning
There are several risk factors associated with global warming. As the temperature of the earth increases, our eco-systems change. Where and how things grow is a consequence of global warming. Warmer temperatures can also affect people's health. Some diseases find warmer climates great for breeding and can be spread to more places that will be able to support their growth. Climate also impacts farming. Warm weather and droughts can affect the growth of crops that need cooler temperatures and regular water to thrive. Sea levels are also rising as a result of global warming. This can be detrimental to islands and low-lying areas if it continues.
Function
People can play an important function in stopping global warming. By making choices that reduce the amount of greenhouse gases that are released into the environment people can help to slow or reverse global warming. Some of the things people can do in their daily lives include using compact florescent bulbs, lower water heaters to below 120 degrees, take shorter showers and carpool. These actions can reduce the daily output of carbon dioxide. People can also band together and encourage companies to reduce their greenhouse gas output.
Significance
As global warming increases, changes in the global climate are inevitable. Land will continue to increase in temperature, the amount of rainfall may increase, and storms will be stronger and more frequent. Ice and glaciers will continue to melt, contributing to the rise in sea levels. Overall, global warming can change the climate of the earth and make it an uncomfortable place to live.
Misconceptions
Many people believe that an individual can't help to reduce global warming. This is not true. Everyone can reduce their carbon dioxide output. For example, switching to fluorescent light bulbs can reduce carbon dioxide output. According to stopglobalwarming.org, if you replace 3 frequently used light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs you can save 300 lbs. of carbon dioxide per year.
