Global Warming, its Causes and its Connection with Diverse Aspects of Nature

Abstract

This paper examines the issue of global warming. It discusses the major causes and repercussions linked with global warming. It describes the Kyoto Protocol and initiatives taken by industrialized and developing countries throughout the globe for the purpose of countering and adjusting to global warming. Further on, major implications of rapid industrialization and extensive deforestation have also been discussed in this paper. The paper emphasizes on the connection between diverse aspects of nature and the phenomenon of global warming.

Introduction

The process of rise in average temperature of Earth's atmosphere and its associated implications is referred to as global warming. During the last 100 years, the average surface temperature of the Earth increased by approximately 0.8 °C. Two thirds of this increase occurred during the last three decades. An undeniable warming of the climate system has occurred. Scientists believe that the primary reason behind this warming is the emission of green house gases. These gases are an immediate consequence of human activities such as burning of fossil fuel and deforestation (Gelbspan, p.114). Consequences of global warming may include droughts, changes in agricultural yields, droughts, extreme weather conditions (heat waves), heavy rain falls and extinction of species. Though the nature of warming related changes is uncertain, they will definitely vary from region to region (Gabriel, p.12). Responses to counteract global warming include adapting to the consequences of global warming, making efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emission and use geoengineering in order to eradicate greenhouse gases from the environment.

Discussion

The main concern associated with global warming is the greenhouse effect. The process of the earth's protection, from the sun's extreme heat, by the ozone layer is referred to as the Greenhouse effect. Two kinds of greenhouse effects exist. In addition to the natural greenhouse effect, also exists the unnatural greenhouse effect called anthrogenic which is caused by the buildup of industrial pollutants, consequently resulting into contribution to global warming. A general consensus is found on the main cause of global warming. The main cause attributed to global warming is the release of carbon dioxide and various other gases (ozone, chlorofluorocarbons and methane) from fossil fuels (Agarwal & Narain, p.27). A six-hundred percent rise in chlorine levels was documented by scientists near the end of 20th century. An interference with the blockage of ultraviolet radiation has been noticed due to the increase in the levels of chlorine present in the atmosphere.

Another major factor contributing to global warming is deforestation. Since trees tend to act as natural pollutant traps and help in preventing these pollutants from releasing in the atmosphere, their deforestation is a serious threat to the environment (McCright & Dunlap, p. 87). Scientists agree that the early industrialization days marked the advent of global warming. This was the time when coal and oil were first introduced in the atmosphere and an increase in carbon dioxide levels was observed (Gelbspan, p.18). A twenty-five percent increase in heat absorbing molecules and concentrations of carbon dioxide ...