Global Warming

Global Warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, which release greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. These gases, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O), trap heat from the sun, causing a “greenhouse effect” that warms the planet.

Key Causes of Global Warming:

1. Burning Fossil Fuels: The combustion of coal, oil, and gas for energy production, transportation, and industry releases large amounts of CO₂ into the atmosphere.
2. Deforestation: Trees absorb CO₂, so clearing forests for agriculture or development reduces the planet’s ability to store carbon.
3. Agriculture: Livestock farming produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and the use of synthetic fertilizers releases nitrous oxide.
4. Industrial Processes: Certain industrial activities, such as cement production and refrigerant use, contribute to the release of GHGs.

Effects of Global Warming:

1. Rising Temperatures: Global warming leads to higher average temperatures, which can cause heatwaves, droughts, and extreme weather events.
2. Melting Ice and Rising Sea Levels: Higher temperatures cause glaciers and polar ice caps to melt, contributing to rising sea levels that threaten coastal communities and ecosystems.
3. Disruption of Ecosystems: Shifts in climate patterns affect habitats, leading to species extinctions, altered migration patterns, and changes in plant growth.
4. Extreme Weather Events: Warming contributes to more intense and frequent weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and storms.
5. Ocean Acidification: Increased CO₂ levels also lead to more carbon being absorbed by the oceans, causing acidification that harms marine life, particularly coral reefs and shellfish.