Global Warming

Global warming is a phenomenon that causes gradual rise in temperature on the Earth's surface. The current average temperature is higher than the temperature at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution (around 1750).

Scientists have been analyzing temperatures from the late 19th century since when recorded data is available. They show an increase in temperature during 1920-40, while in the next three decades the temperature became slightly cooler. The data from 1970 to the present show an increase of about 0.6 °C.

Of all the greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming and climate change, carbon dioxide is the major contributor. Cars and other vehicles, thermal power plants, airplanes, factories, and other human activities release about 23 billion tons of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into atmosphere annually.

The current amount of carbon dioxide in the air is about 31% more than the 1750 level. Out of this, 75% was added by fossil fuel burning in the last two decades. The remaining 25% is attributable to deforestation, forest fires, crop stubble burning, burning forests for agriculture, and similar activities.

As the surface temperature increases the sea level rises due to the expansion of water and melting of glaciers and polar icecaps. This causes coastal flooding and inundation of coastal cities and other areas. Hot deserts will become hotter and expand destroying green areas. Disastrous storms such as hurricanes and tornadoes can make winds faster than 320 kilometers per hour destroying life and property. Weather pattern will change drastically and farming and food production will suffer.

It’s time that the governments of all countries join hands, giving up their differences, and try to reduce global warming. Similarly, people can also contribute to resolve the problem by consuming less energy or adapting to clean and green energy sources.