Article - What Is Global Warming
In the past several years, Global Warming has become one of the biggest debates, with scientists divided on if it exists, what (or
who) is causing it, and if there is a solution. There are contradictory scientific studies and papers on all sides of this issue. Is it a
man-made problem, meaning that each and every person's carbon footprint makes a difference? Is it a bovine-made problem and
every animal that produces bodily waste contributes to an increase in the methane in the atmosphere? Is it a "blip" on the natural
climate cycle? Scientists have been studying whether or not the earth's atmosphere has been in a warming trend because of gases
'stuck" in the atmosphere, which prevents the earth's heat from dissipating, commonly called the greenhouse effect. Simply stated,
the greenhouse effect is the exchange of heat and gases between surface and atmosphere. The greenhouse effect is a natural
occurrence; it is what keeps the earth at a habitable temperature, with the perfect amount of oxygen for humans, animals and
plants.
Scientists who can agree that global warming is a problem also agree that there is no real solution. The industrial years of pollution,
natural volcanic activity and the increased population have all led to the gases in our atmosphere; conservation simply isn't enough
to reverse the damage. In short, the evidence indicates that the earth is warming up. Is it caused by man's output of carbon,
produced by our need for energy; or by animals output of methane?
The Basics Of Global Warming
The most obvious thing that can be said about global warming is that the earth is getting warmer. Specifically, the temperatures
near the surface of the earth and the temperatures in the ocean are rising. Since 1990, there have been 20 years that have been
hotter than any others in recorded history. The greenhouse effect is said to be responsible for global warming. The greenhouse
effect causes certain vapors and gases to form a sort of blanket that covers and warms the earth. Water vapor, methane, carbon
dioxide, and several other trace gases make up this blanket. The greenhouse effect itself is not disputed. No controversy exists
on this point because the greenhouse effect is recognized as an inherently beneficial process. If all the energy that struck the earth
was reflected right back into space, no one could live on earth. This is what would happen without this blanket that is caused by
acceptable levels of global warming. However, global warming is not all good. It can cause the earth's covering to increase in
density. With a denser blanket over the earth, less of the heat is reflected back into space. This upsets the delicate balance
between heat and cold that is usually maintained on earth. It traps more heat inside the earth's atmosphere. There has been an
overall rise in temperature of a little over one degree Fahrenheit during the last century. The figure for this century is expected to
be more like seven degrees. It is this type of global warming that can lead to dire consequences if left unchecked. People, their
activities, and their industries have caused global warming to reach the levels it has today. Burning fossil fuels, powering electrical
plants with coal, and irresponsible land use can all contribute to global warming. Carbon dioxide is produced by these activities,
and global warming is perpetuated.
The Dangers Of Global Warming
If you use the internet, watch television, or listen to the radio, you may already be familiar with global warming. Global warming is
an important issue that is widely discussed and debated, all around the world. Global warming is a phrase that is used to describe
the increase in the earth's temperature. This rise in temperature is attributed to an increase in greenhouse gases. As important as it
is to know that global warming is, it is also important to know the dangers that surround it. After all, many Americans will not take
steps to combat global warming unless they know for sure that it is real and poses a serious threat. As for the threat that global
warming poses, you will find that there is likely to be an increased risk of diseases and illnesses. This is because mice, insects, and
other rodents will be able to notice a change in the environment, namely their local temperatures and surroundings. This will likely
cause many to migrate to areas that may have previously been deemed uninhabitable. After all, why wouldn't they move,
especially if the weather conditions were perfect for doing so? Unfortunately, this is likely to lead to a spread of disease.
Although most of these diseases will be treatable, it may cause concern, especially when diseases and other health related issues
impact areas previously left untouched. Coastal flood is another one of the many dangers that can and will likely be associated
with global warming. Although we are noticing an increase in sea level right now, coastal flooding isn't likely to be a significant
problem for a few years now, but that still doesn't mean that it should be ignored or pushed to the side. Global warming is playing
a role in the melting of glaciers, snow and other ice masses. This melting will cause a significant rise in sea level overtime; thus
leading to coastal flooding. If the costal flood is as bad as anticipated by many scientists and computer weather models, there is a
good chance that billions of individuals will be displaced, all around the globe.
In addition to the melting of glaciers and other large ice and snow masses, many locations will likely receive smaller amounts of
snow and ice during the wintertime, if they even do receive any at all. This may have an impact on the activities that humans are
able to participate in and it may have a significant impact on the economy, both locally and nationally. Of course, it is important to
remember that global warming not only causes the temperature to rise, but it also causes erratic weather. So, it is common for one
area of the world to receive little to no snowfall, while another area, at the same time, may be buried under two feet of snow. As
previously stated, coastal flooding is one of the many dangers associated with global warming. With that in mind, so are droughts.
In areas unaffected by coastal flooding and in areas where the temperature continues to rise, rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds are
likely to dry up and possibly at an even quicker rate of speed. Severe and widespread droughts and water shortages can have a
huge negative impact on our way of life and economy. Farmers rely on water to grow their crops and humans rely on water, as
well as a farmer's crops to survive.
Perhaps, the most horrific danger that may result from global warming is the panic that will likely set in. How would you feel or
react if you one day saw your costal home flood? If you were lucky enough to survive the flood or if you lived farther inland, you
may still have your home, but a drought may result in a shortage of food and water. How you would react to news that diseases
previously not seen in your area were invading it? There was a good chance that panic would set in almost immediately. If global
warming cases the changes that are being predicted, such as the ones outlined above, widespread panic is almost a certainty.
Why You Should Care About Global Warming ?
This blue-green planet we live on, called Earth, as far as scientist can tell, is the only planet that can sustain human life. The
atmosphere has the perfect mix of air that we need to breathe and that plants and trees need for survival.
The earth is the perfect distance from the sun, allowing temperatures optimal for habitation of millions of specials of animals and
plants, and it keeps the planet's vast oceans at a temperature where the many species of fish survive.
In short, the planet Earth supports every species in the food chain, from the bottom to the top.
If the planet were to cool permanently, even a few degrees, there would be vast problems created. For instance, what if snow
came earlier and stayed later in the Midwest; production of the grains grown there would decrease sharply, creating not only a
grain shortage, but a meat shortage as well. More importantly, what would happen if the earth were to heat up several degrees
permanently? The ocean water temperature would no longer support plankton, which support fish, which support birds, and so on
up the food chain. The weather would greatly change; as the atmosphere heats, rivers and oceans evaporate. The levels of carbon
dioxide and methane in the atmosphere would increase, making the quality of our air, the air that you and I breathe everyday,
unsafe. Every degree that our atmosphere changes is harmful to the life cycle of all humankind in some way. Think Globally!
The Effects Of Extreme Events Caused By Global Warming
When a hurricane becomes more intense because of global warming and wipes out a city, the effects are obvious. Yet, there are
some results of extreme events that are less apparent. These situations can change life in many ways. Heat, of course, will be an
important factor in global warming. There will be more days that are hot, higher daytime highs, and many lasting heat waves. This
will affect people, animals, and the environment. There will be more people who will die as a result of intense heat. Elderly people
and poor people who cannot afford air conditioning will be most at risk. The people who do have air conditioning will run theirs
more. The added energy use will increase global warming as more greenhouse gases are emitted into the air. Farmers and
ranchers will notice problems with their operations due to global warming. Crops will have a risk of being damaged by drought,
flooding, or erosion. The uncertainty has always been a part of farming, but now, it will be even worse. Farmers and ranchers will
see that their livestock is suffering from the effects of global warming as well. Their food and water supplies will be in jeopardy,
and storms will put them in danger of injury. Wildlife will be affected as habitats are changed. Another effect of the higher
temperatures caused by global warming is that tourism will make gradual shifts. A region that had the ideal temperature one year
might be too hot the next. Then, tourists will move further north for their vacations. The effects of higher daytime lows are mostly
good. There will be fewer deaths related to cold weather, less reliance on fuels for heat, and some crops will benefit. The bad
news is that other crops will suffer, and pests and diseases will flourish due to global warming. As global warming gets worse,
precipitation will become more intense. This will lead to floods, mudslides, landslides, and avalanches. Soil erosion will be a fact
of life. At the same time, there will be increased risk of drought. This will lead to more forest fires. It will also limit the quantity
and quality of the water supply. Hurricanes intensified by global warming will have a great impact on the earth. People will be
injured or killed in the storms themselves and others will die as a result of infectious diseases that come as a result of the mess of
the clean-up. Hurricanes also damage such natural wonders as coral reefs and mangroves. These are two ecosystems that will be
disrupted if global warming is allowed to continue. The coast of any are with such hurricanes will be in bad shape. There will be
coastal erosion, and the coastal infrastructure will be weakened. The effects of extreme weather caused by global warming are
tremendous. It is only natural to want to try to avoid them. To stop global warming, it will take a group effort combining the
energies of individuals and governments alike.
Research On Global Warming
Research is constantly being done on global warming. The research is being done by studying statistics and by going directly to
the source. Various scientists are coming up with different answers to the most basic questions about global warming. Some
scientists studying global warming in the Arctic have discovered thinning sea ice near the northern reaches of Alaska. The summer
of 2007 showed the least sea ice since sea ice was first tracked in 1979. Scientists participating in the Woods Hole
Oceanographic Institution's Gyre Exploration Project cruised aboard the Canadian Coast Guard's ship, the Icebreaker, to see the
effects of global warming for themselves.
When they reached the area where ice would usually be the thickest and heaviest, the ship sailed right through. When they did see
ice, it was in a state of disintegration because of global warming. Most of the ice remaining was young ice, which is more
vulnerable to thaw. The scientists took their data home to analyze during the colder months. Another group, with the Arctic
Modeling Group and the IJIS Research Group, set sail along the Alaskan coast in the Chukchi Sea. Their mission was to study
different variables of the ocean water that might affect phytoplankton. They found that the water was warmer than the satellite
statistics. The satellite showed 10 degrees Celsius, while their measurements showed 14 degrees Celsius. This is an example of
global warming.
One study was done linking the Russian peat bogs with global warming. The bogs produce a large amount of methane gas.
According to carbon dating that was done, this has been the case since the last ice age. Since methane is one of the greenhouse
gases, this impacts global warming.
However, the studies also show that the peat bogs absorb carbon dioxide at an impressive rate. They contain the largest carbon
stores on the planet. If the peat bogs dry up due to global warming, they would release this carbon dioxide into the air. The
trade-off of carbon dioxide for methane would not be a good one, since methane stays in the atmosphere a shorter time.
Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography have been busy proving that humans bear some culpability for the climate
change in the oceans. They have done this both by observing and noting evidence, and by constructing computer models. The
computer models are based on the evidence that they do have, so they are thought to be quite accurate. With all the data in place,
the evidence seems to point to definite global warming events. It also makes it clear that humans have played a part in causing this
phenomenon.
An MIT professor has studied the effects of warming waters on hurricanes over the last fifty years. He studied statistics from past
storms and generated computer models to test his theory. His specialty is meteorology, so his take on global warming is of
interest. He found that the hurricanes have indeed been getting stronger since 1970.
Research is important to the field of global warming studies. It is only by knowing the problem in precise detail that people can
adequately confront it.
The Economics Of Global Warming
Global warming can prove to be a costly occurrence. For many reasons, financial considerations have already been impacted.
For anyone who looks to the wallet for an indicator of disaster, trouble can be seen in global warming.
The deadly and destructive storms that are now being seen have caused tremendous financial losses. Hurricane Katrina cost
roughly 81 billion dollars in damage, and the actual rebuilding has barely even begun. Storms like Katrina have most likely been
boosted to their extreme levels of force by warm ocean waters. These are caused by global warming. Agriculture can be spoiled
by global warming. Crops die during droughts brought on by global warming. Storms intensified by global warming can damage
agricultural buildings and injure animals. Floods resulting from these storms can drown out crops before they can be harvested.
This all translates into lost revenues for both farmers and investors. It also means higher prices for consumers of agricultural
products. Consumers already know what it is like to pay exorbitant prices for foods that have been damaged while in the fields.
If global warming continues on its present course, this will be a common occurrence. Gasoline prices have an effect on the
economics of communities. When gas prices are high, people will patronize business establishments that are close to their homes.
This hurts the chances of success for a business that is not in a heavily populated area. Global warming is directly affecting the
economics of businesses in this way. The family economics of global warming are undeniable, too. As the climate changes, more
energy is needed to cool houses. Those extra degrees of heat in the atmosphere mean that families will have to set their
thermostats higher, or pay a higher price. Sometimes it is the poorer families that pay for global warming the most. For example,
new cars are outfitted with a new kind of air conditioning system that uses environmentally friendly Freon. A poorer family might
have an older car that does not have this type of system. However, if their air conditioner needs Freon, they might have to pay
several hundred dollars to have the new system put in to use the new Freon. This will help the cause of preventing global
warming. At the same time, the family will be paying for the mistakes of the past. In many regions, everyone pays for the energy
mistakes of earlier times. Coal burning power plants are now being refitted to reduce emissions. This will have a big impact on
preventing global warming. Yet, the economics of it show that people at the present time have to pay with higher utility bills to
make this advantage come true. There are thousands of ways that global warming is affecting the world's economy at this
moment. People are paying for the harm global warming is doing. They are also paying for adjustments to their homes, cars, and
city infrastructures to reduce global warming. With time, changes will be completed. If everyone helps, these costs should go
down.
What Can Nations Do To Combat Global Warming?
There are things individuals can do to help stop global warming. Yet, when nations get involved, it is to everyone's benefit to see
to it that the right steps are taken. Nations can combat global warming by many different means.
For one thing, a good forestry department can have a huge impact. The carbon dioxide that is one cause of global warming is
eaten up by trees. If a country fosters the growth of its forests and does not allow them to be cut down indiscriminately, global
warming will be slowed down. Another thing nations can do is to focus on energy efficiency. The less energy is used, the less
global warming has a chance to take hold. A country can place efficiency standards on appliances and cars. Even better, they
can redesign cities so that walking and cycling can become an option instead of people having to drive everywhere. Alternative
sources of energy emit little or no greenhouse gases. Using them will help curb global warming. Hydro-power, solar energy, and
windmills can be used to take the place of burning gas, or coal for electricity. Windmills, in fact, are already being set up by the
scores in many fields in out-of-the-way places. This is a good step to prevent global warming. Nations can also be quick to
adjust their policies to the climatic changes of the times. When one type of crop will no longer grow well because it needs a
cooler climate, that crop can be replaced in that area with a different kind that will. Nations can build aqueducts to transport
water to drought-ridden areas. There are different ways that nations can get their message about global warming across. First,
they can make laws about it. They can require people to use environmentally-friendly appliances, fuel sources, and vehicles.
Another way to change people's behavior is to make it financially advantageous to be concerned about global warming. If gas
prices are higher, people are spurred on to finding a more fuel-efficient vehicle, or even a different fuel source altogether. Tax
incentives and government subsidies can also encourage people to think about global warming. The only problem is that this
approach usually favors those who have more money in the first place. Governments can make it their business to inform and
educate the people of the country. With news and data about global warming, people will be prompted to take it seriously.
When methods for reducing greenhouse gases are made known by the government, people have a chance to put those methods
into practice. Finally, it is essential that governments get involved with making sure that research and development are done.
Global warming cannot be overcome without good information. It is to the advantage of every citizen when the nation puts some
of its focus on global warming. When a country approaches global warming with a common sense, proactive sensibility, beneficial
changes can be made.
The Global Warming Debate
As you likely already know, global warming is an issue that is largely discussed and debated, all around the world. No matter
where you look, you will always find environmentalists who want you and others to join in the fight against global warming. On the
other hand, you also find those who encourage you to ignore global warming, as it not a serious issue, if it even exists at all. When
it comes to the big global warming debate, you may be wondering who is doing the debating. In all honesty, you will find that it is
a wide range of people. While most scientists and meteorologists agree that global warming is a cause for concern, not all do. In
addition to a few well known meteorologists and scientists, there are many political figures and even some celebrities who voice
their opposition to global warming, namely global warming support groups. In keeping with those behind the opposition of global
warming, you may be wondering if they have ulterior motives. Of course, some do. In fact, in Al Gore's documentary on global
warming, titled An Inconvenient Truth, he highlighted and showed documentation of the actions taken by many politicians and
those with stocks in energy companies who opposed global warming. In some instances, these individuals knowingly disregarded
scientific evidence and sugarcoated global warming, so that it didn't seem like an important issue at the time. As for the global
warming debate itself, you will find that there are some variations. For example, many of those who oppose global warming and
downplay the severity of it claim the changes that we are seeing are not unexpected. Many have believed that polar icecaps
would melt anyways, a slight rise in the earth's temperature isn't that unexpected, and sea levels have been rising slightly for years
now.
In keeping with those who believe that the changes we are seeing would occur anyways, there are others who are concerned with
taking action. One of the biggest ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is to reduce pollution in the air. Many political figures
and other environmentalists want homeowners and business owners to use less energy and switch to environmental friendly
electricity, like wind or solar powered electricity. Those who oppose global warming feel that this could have a negative impact
on businesses who oppose or cannot afford these changes. If this is the case, many claim that the harm caused to the economy
would be much worse than what global warming would or could do.
There are also those who oppose global warming because they view it as a scam. These are individuals who often believe that
there is nothing wrong with the planet and the environment, unlike some of the opposition mentioned above, who do often
acknowledge something is wrong, but they just don't know what. Those who believe global warming is a scam claim it is used to
raise money for environmental organizations and groups. Yes, these groups do ask for donations, but they aren't required. There
are an unlimited number of ways that you can fight global warming without donations; therefore, this opposition is often viewed as
unrealistic and unreliable.
Although every American is able to have their own views and beliefs, the debate surrounding global warming does have a number
of consequences. Perhaps, the greatest consequence is confusion, as many Americans do not know who they should believe.
In the past several years, Global Warming has become one of the biggest debates, with scientists divided on if it exists, what (or
who) is causing it, and if there is a solution. There are contradictory scientific studies and papers on all sides of this issue. Is it a
man-made problem, meaning that each and every person's carbon footprint makes a difference? Is it a bovine-made problem and
every animal that produces bodily waste contributes to an increase in the methane in the atmosphere? Is it a "blip" on the natural
climate cycle? Scientists have been studying whether or not the earth's atmosphere has been in a warming trend because of gases
'stuck" in the atmosphere, which prevents the earth's heat from dissipating, commonly called the greenhouse effect. Simply stated,
the greenhouse effect is the exchange of heat and gases between surface and atmosphere. The greenhouse effect is a natural
occurrence; it is what keeps the earth at a habitable temperature, with the perfect amount of oxygen for humans, animals and
plants.
Scientists who can agree that global warming is a problem also agree that there is no real solution. The industrial years of pollution,
natural volcanic activity and the increased population have all led to the gases in our atmosphere; conservation simply isn't enough
to reverse the damage. In short, the evidence indicates that the earth is warming up. Is it caused by man's output of carbon,
produced by our need for energy; or by animals output of methane?
The Basics Of Global Warming
The most obvious thing that can be said about global warming is that the earth is getting warmer. Specifically, the temperatures
near the surface of the earth and the temperatures in the ocean are rising. Since 1990, there have been 20 years that have been
hotter than any others in recorded history. The greenhouse effect is said to be responsible for global warming. The greenhouse
effect causes certain vapors and gases to form a sort of blanket that covers and warms the earth. Water vapor, methane, carbon
dioxide, and several other trace gases make up this blanket. The greenhouse effect itself is not disputed. No controversy exists
on this point because the greenhouse effect is recognized as an inherently beneficial process. If all the energy that struck the earth
was reflected right back into space, no one could live on earth. This is what would happen without this blanket that is caused by
acceptable levels of global warming. However, global warming is not all good. It can cause the earth's covering to increase in
density. With a denser blanket over the earth, less of the heat is reflected back into space. This upsets the delicate balance
between heat and cold that is usually maintained on earth. It traps more heat inside the earth's atmosphere. There has been an
overall rise in temperature of a little over one degree Fahrenheit during the last century. The figure for this century is expected to
be more like seven degrees. It is this type of global warming that can lead to dire consequences if left unchecked. People, their
activities, and their industries have caused global warming to reach the levels it has today. Burning fossil fuels, powering electrical
plants with coal, and irresponsible land use can all contribute to global warming. Carbon dioxide is produced by these activities,
and global warming is perpetuated.
The Dangers Of Global Warming
If you use the internet, watch television, or listen to the radio, you may already be familiar with global warming. Global warming is
an important issue that is widely discussed and debated, all around the world. Global warming is a phrase that is used to describe
the increase in the earth's temperature. This rise in temperature is attributed to an increase in greenhouse gases. As important as it
is to know that global warming is, it is also important to know the dangers that surround it. After all, many Americans will not take
steps to combat global warming unless they know for sure that it is real and poses a serious threat. As for the threat that global
warming poses, you will find that there is likely to be an increased risk of diseases and illnesses. This is because mice, insects, and
other rodents will be able to notice a change in the environment, namely their local temperatures and surroundings. This will likely
cause many to migrate to areas that may have previously been deemed uninhabitable. After all, why wouldn't they move,
especially if the weather conditions were perfect for doing so? Unfortunately, this is likely to lead to a spread of disease.
Although most of these diseases will be treatable, it may cause concern, especially when diseases and other health related issues
impact areas previously left untouched. Coastal flood is another one of the many dangers that can and will likely be associated
with global warming. Although we are noticing an increase in sea level right now, coastal flooding isn't likely to be a significant
problem for a few years now, but that still doesn't mean that it should be ignored or pushed to the side. Global warming is playing
a role in the melting of glaciers, snow and other ice masses. This melting will cause a significant rise in sea level overtime; thus
leading to coastal flooding. If the costal flood is as bad as anticipated by many scientists and computer weather models, there is a
good chance that billions of individuals will be displaced, all around the globe.
In addition to the melting of glaciers and other large ice and snow masses, many locations will likely receive smaller amounts of
snow and ice during the wintertime, if they even do receive any at all. This may have an impact on the activities that humans are
able to participate in and it may have a significant impact on the economy, both locally and nationally. Of course, it is important to
remember that global warming not only causes the temperature to rise, but it also causes erratic weather. So, it is common for one
area of the world to receive little to no snowfall, while another area, at the same time, may be buried under two feet of snow. As
previously stated, coastal flooding is one of the many dangers associated with global warming. With that in mind, so are droughts.
In areas unaffected by coastal flooding and in areas where the temperature continues to rise, rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds are
likely to dry up and possibly at an even quicker rate of speed. Severe and widespread droughts and water shortages can have a
huge negative impact on our way of life and economy. Farmers rely on water to grow their crops and humans rely on water, as
well as a farmer's crops to survive.
Perhaps, the most horrific danger that may result from global warming is the panic that will likely set in. How would you feel or
react if you one day saw your costal home flood? If you were lucky enough to survive the flood or if you lived farther inland, you
may still have your home, but a drought may result in a shortage of food and water. How you would react to news that diseases
previously not seen in your area were invading it? There was a good chance that panic would set in almost immediately. If global
warming cases the changes that are being predicted, such as the ones outlined above, widespread panic is almost a certainty.
Why You Should Care About Global Warming ?
This blue-green planet we live on, called Earth, as far as scientist can tell, is the only planet that can sustain human life. The
atmosphere has the perfect mix of air that we need to breathe and that plants and trees need for survival.
The earth is the perfect distance from the sun, allowing temperatures optimal for habitation of millions of specials of animals and
plants, and it keeps the planet's vast oceans at a temperature where the many species of fish survive.
In short, the planet Earth supports every species in the food chain, from the bottom to the top.
If the planet were to cool permanently, even a few degrees, there would be vast problems created. For instance, what if snow
came earlier and stayed later in the Midwest; production of the grains grown there would decrease sharply, creating not only a
grain shortage, but a meat shortage as well. More importantly, what would happen if the earth were to heat up several degrees
permanently? The ocean water temperature would no longer support plankton, which support fish, which support birds, and so on
up the food chain. The weather would greatly change; as the atmosphere heats, rivers and oceans evaporate. The levels of carbon
dioxide and methane in the atmosphere would increase, making the quality of our air, the air that you and I breathe everyday,
unsafe. Every degree that our atmosphere changes is harmful to the life cycle of all humankind in some way. Think Globally!
The Effects Of Extreme Events Caused By Global Warming
When a hurricane becomes more intense because of global warming and wipes out a city, the effects are obvious. Yet, there are
some results of extreme events that are less apparent. These situations can change life in many ways. Heat, of course, will be an
important factor in global warming. There will be more days that are hot, higher daytime highs, and many lasting heat waves. This
will affect people, animals, and the environment. There will be more people who will die as a result of intense heat. Elderly people
and poor people who cannot afford air conditioning will be most at risk. The people who do have air conditioning will run theirs
more. The added energy use will increase global warming as more greenhouse gases are emitted into the air. Farmers and
ranchers will notice problems with their operations due to global warming. Crops will have a risk of being damaged by drought,
flooding, or erosion. The uncertainty has always been a part of farming, but now, it will be even worse. Farmers and ranchers will
see that their livestock is suffering from the effects of global warming as well. Their food and water supplies will be in jeopardy,
and storms will put them in danger of injury. Wildlife will be affected as habitats are changed. Another effect of the higher
temperatures caused by global warming is that tourism will make gradual shifts. A region that had the ideal temperature one year
might be too hot the next. Then, tourists will move further north for their vacations. The effects of higher daytime lows are mostly
good. There will be fewer deaths related to cold weather, less reliance on fuels for heat, and some crops will benefit. The bad
news is that other crops will suffer, and pests and diseases will flourish due to global warming. As global warming gets worse,
precipitation will become more intense. This will lead to floods, mudslides, landslides, and avalanches. Soil erosion will be a fact
of life. At the same time, there will be increased risk of drought. This will lead to more forest fires. It will also limit the quantity
and quality of the water supply. Hurricanes intensified by global warming will have a great impact on the earth. People will be
injured or killed in the storms themselves and others will die as a result of infectious diseases that come as a result of the mess of
the clean-up. Hurricanes also damage such natural wonders as coral reefs and mangroves. These are two ecosystems that will be
disrupted if global warming is allowed to continue. The coast of any are with such hurricanes will be in bad shape. There will be
coastal erosion, and the coastal infrastructure will be weakened. The effects of extreme weather caused by global warming are
tremendous. It is only natural to want to try to avoid them. To stop global warming, it will take a group effort combining the
energies of individuals and governments alike.
Research On Global Warming
Research is constantly being done on global warming. The research is being done by studying statistics and by going directly to
the source. Various scientists are coming up with different answers to the most basic questions about global warming. Some
scientists studying global warming in the Arctic have discovered thinning sea ice near the northern reaches of Alaska. The summer
of 2007 showed the least sea ice since sea ice was first tracked in 1979. Scientists participating in the Woods Hole
Oceanographic Institution's Gyre Exploration Project cruised aboard the Canadian Coast Guard's ship, the Icebreaker, to see the
effects of global warming for themselves.
When they reached the area where ice would usually be the thickest and heaviest, the ship sailed right through. When they did see
ice, it was in a state of disintegration because of global warming. Most of the ice remaining was young ice, which is more
vulnerable to thaw. The scientists took their data home to analyze during the colder months. Another group, with the Arctic
Modeling Group and the IJIS Research Group, set sail along the Alaskan coast in the Chukchi Sea. Their mission was to study
different variables of the ocean water that might affect phytoplankton. They found that the water was warmer than the satellite
statistics. The satellite showed 10 degrees Celsius, while their measurements showed 14 degrees Celsius. This is an example of
global warming.
One study was done linking the Russian peat bogs with global warming. The bogs produce a large amount of methane gas.
According to carbon dating that was done, this has been the case since the last ice age. Since methane is one of the greenhouse
gases, this impacts global warming.
However, the studies also show that the peat bogs absorb carbon dioxide at an impressive rate. They contain the largest carbon
stores on the planet. If the peat bogs dry up due to global warming, they would release this carbon dioxide into the air. The
trade-off of carbon dioxide for methane would not be a good one, since methane stays in the atmosphere a shorter time.
Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography have been busy proving that humans bear some culpability for the climate
change in the oceans. They have done this both by observing and noting evidence, and by constructing computer models. The
computer models are based on the evidence that they do have, so they are thought to be quite accurate. With all the data in place,
the evidence seems to point to definite global warming events. It also makes it clear that humans have played a part in causing this
phenomenon.
An MIT professor has studied the effects of warming waters on hurricanes over the last fifty years. He studied statistics from past
storms and generated computer models to test his theory. His specialty is meteorology, so his take on global warming is of
interest. He found that the hurricanes have indeed been getting stronger since 1970.
Research is important to the field of global warming studies. It is only by knowing the problem in precise detail that people can
adequately confront it.
The Economics Of Global Warming
Global warming can prove to be a costly occurrence. For many reasons, financial considerations have already been impacted.
For anyone who looks to the wallet for an indicator of disaster, trouble can be seen in global warming.
The deadly and destructive storms that are now being seen have caused tremendous financial losses. Hurricane Katrina cost
roughly 81 billion dollars in damage, and the actual rebuilding has barely even begun. Storms like Katrina have most likely been
boosted to their extreme levels of force by warm ocean waters. These are caused by global warming. Agriculture can be spoiled
by global warming. Crops die during droughts brought on by global warming. Storms intensified by global warming can damage
agricultural buildings and injure animals. Floods resulting from these storms can drown out crops before they can be harvested.
This all translates into lost revenues for both farmers and investors. It also means higher prices for consumers of agricultural
products. Consumers already know what it is like to pay exorbitant prices for foods that have been damaged while in the fields.
If global warming continues on its present course, this will be a common occurrence. Gasoline prices have an effect on the
economics of communities. When gas prices are high, people will patronize business establishments that are close to their homes.
This hurts the chances of success for a business that is not in a heavily populated area. Global warming is directly affecting the
economics of businesses in this way. The family economics of global warming are undeniable, too. As the climate changes, more
energy is needed to cool houses. Those extra degrees of heat in the atmosphere mean that families will have to set their
thermostats higher, or pay a higher price. Sometimes it is the poorer families that pay for global warming the most. For example,
new cars are outfitted with a new kind of air conditioning system that uses environmentally friendly Freon. A poorer family might
have an older car that does not have this type of system. However, if their air conditioner needs Freon, they might have to pay
several hundred dollars to have the new system put in to use the new Freon. This will help the cause of preventing global
warming. At the same time, the family will be paying for the mistakes of the past. In many regions, everyone pays for the energy
mistakes of earlier times. Coal burning power plants are now being refitted to reduce emissions. This will have a big impact on
preventing global warming. Yet, the economics of it show that people at the present time have to pay with higher utility bills to
make this advantage come true. There are thousands of ways that global warming is affecting the world's economy at this
moment. People are paying for the harm global warming is doing. They are also paying for adjustments to their homes, cars, and
city infrastructures to reduce global warming. With time, changes will be completed. If everyone helps, these costs should go
down.
What Can Nations Do To Combat Global Warming?
There are things individuals can do to help stop global warming. Yet, when nations get involved, it is to everyone's benefit to see
to it that the right steps are taken. Nations can combat global warming by many different means.
For one thing, a good forestry department can have a huge impact. The carbon dioxide that is one cause of global warming is
eaten up by trees. If a country fosters the growth of its forests and does not allow them to be cut down indiscriminately, global
warming will be slowed down. Another thing nations can do is to focus on energy efficiency. The less energy is used, the less
global warming has a chance to take hold. A country can place efficiency standards on appliances and cars. Even better, they
can redesign cities so that walking and cycling can become an option instead of people having to drive everywhere. Alternative
sources of energy emit little or no greenhouse gases. Using them will help curb global warming. Hydro-power, solar energy, and
windmills can be used to take the place of burning gas, or coal for electricity. Windmills, in fact, are already being set up by the
scores in many fields in out-of-the-way places. This is a good step to prevent global warming. Nations can also be quick to
adjust their policies to the climatic changes of the times. When one type of crop will no longer grow well because it needs a
cooler climate, that crop can be replaced in that area with a different kind that will. Nations can build aqueducts to transport
water to drought-ridden areas. There are different ways that nations can get their message about global warming across. First,
they can make laws about it. They can require people to use environmentally-friendly appliances, fuel sources, and vehicles.
Another way to change people's behavior is to make it financially advantageous to be concerned about global warming. If gas
prices are higher, people are spurred on to finding a more fuel-efficient vehicle, or even a different fuel source altogether. Tax
incentives and government subsidies can also encourage people to think about global warming. The only problem is that this
approach usually favors those who have more money in the first place. Governments can make it their business to inform and
educate the people of the country. With news and data about global warming, people will be prompted to take it seriously.
When methods for reducing greenhouse gases are made known by the government, people have a chance to put those methods
into practice. Finally, it is essential that governments get involved with making sure that research and development are done.
Global warming cannot be overcome without good information. It is to the advantage of every citizen when the nation puts some
of its focus on global warming. When a country approaches global warming with a common sense, proactive sensibility, beneficial
changes can be made.
The Global Warming Debate
As you likely already know, global warming is an issue that is largely discussed and debated, all around the world. No matter
where you look, you will always find environmentalists who want you and others to join in the fight against global warming. On the
other hand, you also find those who encourage you to ignore global warming, as it not a serious issue, if it even exists at all. When
it comes to the big global warming debate, you may be wondering who is doing the debating. In all honesty, you will find that it is
a wide range of people. While most scientists and meteorologists agree that global warming is a cause for concern, not all do. In
addition to a few well known meteorologists and scientists, there are many political figures and even some celebrities who voice
their opposition to global warming, namely global warming support groups. In keeping with those behind the opposition of global
warming, you may be wondering if they have ulterior motives. Of course, some do. In fact, in Al Gore's documentary on global
warming, titled An Inconvenient Truth, he highlighted and showed documentation of the actions taken by many politicians and
those with stocks in energy companies who opposed global warming. In some instances, these individuals knowingly disregarded
scientific evidence and sugarcoated global warming, so that it didn't seem like an important issue at the time. As for the global
warming debate itself, you will find that there are some variations. For example, many of those who oppose global warming and
downplay the severity of it claim the changes that we are seeing are not unexpected. Many have believed that polar icecaps
would melt anyways, a slight rise in the earth's temperature isn't that unexpected, and sea levels have been rising slightly for years
now.
In keeping with those who believe that the changes we are seeing would occur anyways, there are others who are concerned with
taking action. One of the biggest ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is to reduce pollution in the air. Many political figures
and other environmentalists want homeowners and business owners to use less energy and switch to environmental friendly
electricity, like wind or solar powered electricity. Those who oppose global warming feel that this could have a negative impact
on businesses who oppose or cannot afford these changes. If this is the case, many claim that the harm caused to the economy
would be much worse than what global warming would or could do.
There are also those who oppose global warming because they view it as a scam. These are individuals who often believe that
there is nothing wrong with the planet and the environment, unlike some of the opposition mentioned above, who do often
acknowledge something is wrong, but they just don't know what. Those who believe global warming is a scam claim it is used to
raise money for environmental organizations and groups. Yes, these groups do ask for donations, but they aren't required. There
are an unlimited number of ways that you can fight global warming without donations; therefore, this opposition is often viewed as
unrealistic and unreliable.
Although every American is able to have their own views and beliefs, the debate surrounding global warming does have a number
of consequences. Perhaps, the greatest consequence is confusion, as many Americans do not know who they should believe.
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| What is Global Warming |
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