2. Causes of Global Warming Almost 100% of the observed temperature increase over the last 50 years has been due to the increase in the atmosphere of greenhouse gas concentrations like water vapour, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and ozone. Greenhouse gases are those gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect (see below). The largest contributing source of greenhouse gas is the burning of fossil fuels leading to the emission of carbon dioxide
3. The Effects of Global Warming Increasing global temperatures are causing a broad range of changes. Sea levels are rising due to thermal expansion of the ocean, in addition to melting of land ice. Amounts and patterns of precipitation are changing. The total annual power of hurricanes has already increased markedly since 1975 because their average intensity and average duration have increased (in addition, there has been a high correlation of hurricane power with tropical sea-surface temperature). Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns increase the frequency, duration, and intensity of other extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, heat waves, and tornadoes. Other effects of global warming include higher or lower agricultural yields, further glacial retreat, reduced summer stream flows, species extinctions. As a further effect of global warming, diseases like malaria are returning into areas where they have been extinguished earlier.
4. Although global warming is affecting the number and magnitude of these events, it is difficult to connect specific events to global warming. Although most studies focus on the period up to 2100, warming is expected to continue past then because carbon dioxide (chemical symbol CO2) has an estimated atmospheric lifetime of 50 to 200 years. For a summary of the predictions for the future increase in temperature up to 2100
5. How to Prevent Global Warming The big debate in the global warming world at the moment is whether global warming is man made or completely natural. A combination of both, I think is the logical and clear answer. There is no denying that the natural cycle of the planets environment has bought on extreme weather conditions in the past but never as bad as predicted this time. Studies show that man made influences are adding to the cycle considerably. So, how to prevent global warming? Many ways are being pushed upon society. Turn your lights off, turn your T.V. off, walk to the shop, and buy a greener car. But can all these little things actually add up to make a difference? Or do we need to put pressure on the corporations. This is where the real emissions are coming from. Yes of course we need to do all the little things ourselves. Lead by example right? But big pressure from the public and the governments on the large companies and corporations really is the answer.
6. That being said, it needs to happen now. Studies show that we've almost gone past the point of no return. Our planet has been abused to the point that it can't take anymore. So we need to turn the lights off, TVs off, PCs off, walk and take the bus. But we need to find a way to rally together now; this threat is 10 fold the threat of nuclear war or even the past threats of world wars. It is a subtle enemy sneaking up on us from behind, and it is an enemy with great power. Once Again, How to prevent global warming? We need our governments to implement emergency laws, use the power of the media to influence those who are not aware or are too stubborn or selfish to do anything about it. We need to take a stand now!
