"Global warming" is a phrase that comes up a lot in conversations about the environment. While global warming still involves mysteries for scientists and laymen alike, certain key facts must be understood if we are to combat this issue.
What Is Global Warming?
Global warming is a term used to describe the gradual increase in temperature in our environment. Though it may not be noticeable in one man's lifetime, over a period of many years, global warming can dramatically impact our planet. Though the exact effects of global warming is uncertain at this time, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), "Observed effects [of global warming] include sea level rise, shrinking glaciers, changes in the range and distribution of plants and animals, trees blooming earlier, lengthening of growing seasons, ice on rivers and lakes freezing later and breaking up earlier, and thawing of permafrost." These effects could have a drastic impact on the way we live our lives in the future, affecting everything from crops to sustainable habitats.
Greenhouse Gases
Global warming is caused by the emission of greenhouse gases. Just as a greenhouse traps in heat in order for plants to grow in cold temperatures, greenhouse gases keep heat in our atmosphere. On the positive side, greenhouse gases keep Earth's climate warm and livable; however, the drastic rise of greenhouse gas emissions in recent years means that the temperature may continue to rise until it is no longer bearable.
Long-Term Effects
Though scientists do not know when global warming will become a more serious problem than it is now, they have been able to predict some possible outcomes. According to the EPA, "Human health can be affected directly and indirectly by climate change in part through extreme periods of heat and cold, storms, and climate-sensitive diseases such as malaria, and smog episodes." In addition to individual health problems, entire regions of the world can be affected by an increase in wetness or dryness, causing difficulties with crop growth and sustenance.
Human Emissions
Most greenhouse gases are emitted by human activities. Carbon dioxide and methane are two such gases; they can be found in emissions from factories, as waste from the chemical products we use in our daily lives, and in the byproducts from our cars and homes. As humans grow more and more dependent upon modern technology, we also increase our production of greenhouse gases.
Going Green
There are things we can do to help our environment and slow the process of global warming. Purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles and taking proper care of those vehicles reduces their emission of greenhouse gases significantly. Additionally, conserving energy at home (electricity, air conditioning, etc.) reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Of course, learning to do without some of the modern conveniences (such as riding a bike instead of driving or using fewer harsh chemicals on our lawns) can also have a positive impact on our environment. If every person on the planet reduces his or her greenhouse gas emissions by a small amount, it can make a big difference.
