This document provides an overview of climate change, including the key factors that influence climate such as greenhouse gases, evidence that climate change is occurring such as effects on snow/ice and ecosystems, and why the impacts of climate change matter. It discusses how scientists are very confident that human activities have contributed to warming over the past 50 years based on observations, models, and consensus reports. While there is still uncertainty around specific impacts and processes, risks of inaction are concerning. Solutions discussed include improving energy efficiency, developing renewable energy, and individual actions to reduce emissions.
The document presents information on climate change, including:
1) Various natural and human factors that can influence climate, with an emphasis on increasing greenhouse gases trapping more heat and changing the climate.
2) Evidence that climate change is occurring through observed effects like changing snow and ice levels as well as impacts on ecosystems and precipitation patterns.
3) Reasons to care about climate change including risks of sea level rise affecting populated coastal areas and events like the 2003 European heat wave that resulted in over 14,000 deaths.
4) The scientific consensus represented by the IPCC that climate change poses severe risks and is very likely caused by human activity.
This document discusses climate change and related topics. It defines climate and differentiates it from weather. It then explores factors affecting climate like latitude, ocean currents, wind etc. It examines causes of climate change such as greenhouse gases, volcanic eruptions, ocean currents, solar radiation and human activities like deforestation, fossil fuel use, industrial processes etc. Finally, it outlines effects of climate change such as extreme weather, sea level rise, species extinction and solutions to address climate change through alternative energy, conservation and sustainable practices.
This document summarizes key points about climate change:
1) Various natural and human factors can influence climate, including greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane which are increasing and trapping more heat in the atmosphere.
2) Evidence of a changing climate is clear from effects like retreating glaciers, shifting ecosystems, and more extreme weather events.
3) The impacts of climate change could be severe without action, threatening coastal cities, agriculture, and causing issues like power outages from heat waves.
4) While some uncertainties remain, the consensus among scientists is that climate change poses a major risk and human activity is the dominant cause over the past 50 years.
This document discusses Al Gore's film "An Inconvenient Truth" and global warming. It argues that Gore's film contains many errors and misrepresentations about historical temperatures, CO2 levels, glacial data, and the impacts of climate change. It also questions the extent of the scientific consensus around human-caused global warming and argues that views challenging this consensus have been met with invective rather than discussion. The document advocates for evidence over emotion and mutual respect in discussions around this issue.
The document discusses how the planet is warming due to increased greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane. Global temperatures are predicted to rise 4-5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. Italy is warming faster than the global average, and the country is experiencing more floods, whirlwinds, and earthquakes. Human activity is largely responsible for increasing greenhouse gases and rising temperatures through the burning of fossil fuels. If lifestyles do not change to mitigate climate change, serious damages will result for ecosystems and human beings.
The document discusses how the planet is warming due to increased greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane. Temperatures are projected to rise 4-5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. Italy is warming faster than the global average, increasing the risks of floods, whirlwinds and earthquakes. Glaciers are melting as clear evidence of the effects of climate change, and the hottest years on record have been recent ones. Climate change affects all ecosystems and human beings, so without changes to lifestyles, the damages will be serious.
The document discusses the causes and effects of global warming. The main causes are burning fossil fuels, deforestation, overproduction, and increased CO2 levels. Some effects of global warming include rising temperatures, melting glaciers and sea ice, and faster sea level rise. If warming continues, hurricanes and storms are expected to intensify, floods and droughts will increase, fresh water availability will decline, and ecosystems will be disrupted. Reducing fossil fuel use, planting trees, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions are proposed to mitigate global warming impacts.
The document presents information on climate change, including:
1) Various natural and human factors that can influence climate, with an emphasis on increasing greenhouse gases trapping more heat and changing the climate.
2) Evidence that climate change is occurring through observed effects like changing snow and ice levels as well as impacts on ecosystems and precipitation patterns.
3) Reasons to care about climate change including risks of sea level rise affecting populated coastal areas and events like the 2003 European heat wave that resulted in over 14,000 deaths.
4) The scientific consensus represented by the IPCC that climate change poses severe risks and is very likely caused by human activity.
This document discusses climate change and related topics. It defines climate and differentiates it from weather. It then explores factors affecting climate like latitude, ocean currents, wind etc. It examines causes of climate change such as greenhouse gases, volcanic eruptions, ocean currents, solar radiation and human activities like deforestation, fossil fuel use, industrial processes etc. Finally, it outlines effects of climate change such as extreme weather, sea level rise, species extinction and solutions to address climate change through alternative energy, conservation and sustainable practices.
This document summarizes key points about climate change:
1) Various natural and human factors can influence climate, including greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane which are increasing and trapping more heat in the atmosphere.
2) Evidence of a changing climate is clear from effects like retreating glaciers, shifting ecosystems, and more extreme weather events.
3) The impacts of climate change could be severe without action, threatening coastal cities, agriculture, and causing issues like power outages from heat waves.
4) While some uncertainties remain, the consensus among scientists is that climate change poses a major risk and human activity is the dominant cause over the past 50 years.
This document discusses Al Gore's film "An Inconvenient Truth" and global warming. It argues that Gore's film contains many errors and misrepresentations about historical temperatures, CO2 levels, glacial data, and the impacts of climate change. It also questions the extent of the scientific consensus around human-caused global warming and argues that views challenging this consensus have been met with invective rather than discussion. The document advocates for evidence over emotion and mutual respect in discussions around this issue.
The document discusses how the planet is warming due to increased greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane. Global temperatures are predicted to rise 4-5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. Italy is warming faster than the global average, and the country is experiencing more floods, whirlwinds, and earthquakes. Human activity is largely responsible for increasing greenhouse gases and rising temperatures through the burning of fossil fuels. If lifestyles do not change to mitigate climate change, serious damages will result for ecosystems and human beings.
The document discusses how the planet is warming due to increased greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane. Temperatures are projected to rise 4-5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. Italy is warming faster than the global average, increasing the risks of floods, whirlwinds and earthquakes. Glaciers are melting as clear evidence of the effects of climate change, and the hottest years on record have been recent ones. Climate change affects all ecosystems and human beings, so without changes to lifestyles, the damages will be serious.
The document discusses the causes and effects of global warming. The main causes are burning fossil fuels, deforestation, overproduction, and increased CO2 levels. Some effects of global warming include rising temperatures, melting glaciers and sea ice, and faster sea level rise. If warming continues, hurricanes and storms are expected to intensify, floods and droughts will increase, fresh water availability will decline, and ecosystems will be disrupted. Reducing fossil fuel use, planting trees, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions are proposed to mitigate global warming impacts.
The document discusses evidence that global warming is occurring rather than global cooling. It notes that the Earth's temperature has risen 1.4°F over the past century due to increased greenhouse gases from fossil fuel burning. This is causing Arctic ice to melt 5% per decade and glaciers worldwide to retreat. Rising sea levels and more extreme weather are threatening coastal communities. While some argue for global cooling, statistics show the last decade was the hottest on record and temperatures continue increasing, indicating the planet is warming rather than cooling.
Warming is believed to be caused by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases produced by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. The effects of an increase in global temperature include a rise in sea levels and a change in the amount and pattern of precipitation, as well a probable expansion of subtropical deserts.
The current policies that have been put in place to address climate change are likely to
lead to an increase in global temperature of 4°C before the end of this century. Even if the international community has committed, through the international agreements of
the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to a maximum warming
of 2°C, decisive action is still needed to reach this goal.
In a report prepared for the World Bank, the Potsdam Institute for Climate Change lays out the consequences of a warming of 4°C.
The document provides evidence that global warming is occurring due to human activity. It notes that carbon dioxide emissions have increased, most of the world has warmed, Arctic and Antarctic ice caps are melting faster than previously thought, global sea levels have risen 10-25 cm in the last century, and the greenhouse effect is trapping more heat due to increased greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane. While some natural climate variability occurs, mainstream scientists believe human emissions are enhancing the greenhouse effect and warning the planet, threatening life if emissions are not reduced. Burning fossil fuels also creates pollutants that cause "global dimming" by making clouds more reflective, offsetting warming slightly.
Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trapping heat in the atmosphere and warming the planet. It threatens life on Earth by raising sea levels, melting ice caps, and causing climatic changes. A survey found that more people turning off lights could help reduce global warming by decreasing emissions from energy production. The greenhouse effect currently warms the Earth, but unchecked warming will drastically change conditions worldwide if emissions are not reduced.
Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and raise temperatures. A report from 2500 scientists concluded that humans have caused current planetary warming through activities that release greenhouse gases. Effects of global warming include melting Arctic ice, threatened species, and more extreme weather events like hurricanes. Leaders like Prince Charles, Al Gore, and Barack Obama have expressed concern about global warming and the need for urgent action to address it.
This document discusses the risks of climate change, including how it is accelerating due to increasing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. It notes that while some climate change is natural, the recent warming is caused by human activity like burning fossil fuels. If emissions are not mitigated, global temperatures could increase by 3-4°C by 2100. The impacts of climate change are already being seen worldwide and pose severe risks to safety, food supplies, and the economy through increased extreme weather and rising insurance costs.
The document argues that global warming is not real and caused by human activity. It claims that over the last 11 years temperatures have cooled due to reduced sunspot activity. It also asserts that glaciers are getting thicker, not thinner, and that climate models are unreliable. The document concludes that natural factors like water vapor and volcanoes are more significant causes of atmospheric CO2 levels than human emissions.
Global warming is causing an increase in average global temperatures due to increased greenhouse gas emissions. This is leading to more frequent and intense hurricanes for three key reasons:
1) Warmer ocean temperatures provide more energy to fuel developing hurricanes.
2) Higher temperatures cause increased evaporation and more water vapor in the atmosphere, allowing hurricanes to strengthen more rapidly.
3) Data shows a rise in the number of strong hurricanes (categories 3-5) from the 1850s to present day as global warming has increased.
This video explains the many causes of global warming, some of its devastating effects, and things that you can do to help prevent the increase of global warming.
Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trapping heat in the atmosphere. This is leading to more extreme weather like stronger hurricanes, heavier rainfall, and longer/hotter heat waves. Other effects include melting glaciers and rising sea levels, which threaten cities like Miami. Studies also show that climate change has increased the risk of Australian bushfires and warming is happening twice as fast in Canada as the rest of the world, especially in Arctic regions, with many changes now considered irreversible.
This document argues that global warming is not real based on several claims:
1) Satellite and land temperature data show no warming or are inaccurate.
2) Computer models of global warming are not based on historical data and are inaccurate.
3) Past periods of warming, such as during the Vikings, showed benefits to humanity.
4) Efforts to reduce emissions will be very costly but have little effect on warming.
The greenhouse effect occurs naturally and helps regulate the Earth's temperature. Certain gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, trap heat from the sun similarly to how greenhouse gases keep heat inside a greenhouse. However, increased levels of greenhouse gases from human activity are amplifying this effect and causing the planet to warm through global warming, raising sea levels and intensifying weather events like droughts and floods.
Global warming is caused by human activities that have disrupted the natural greenhouse gas effect and caused global temperatures to rise beyond critical levels. The document outlines key events in documenting global warming such as Charles Keeling's measurements of CO2 levels in 1958 and the effect of the 1991 Pinatubo eruption in reducing temperatures temporarily. It describes the greenhouse gases that cause warming and their effects. The document calls for reducing greenhouse gas emissions through various individual and societal changes to stop global warming.
The document discusses climate change, global warming, and the greenhouse effect. It explains that climate change occurs due to global warming, which happens as a result of the greenhouse effect trapping heat. The greenhouse effect is caused by an increase in heat-trapping gases like methane and CO2 released by human activities. If unchecked, global warming could lead to rising sea levels from melting ice, stronger hurricanes, droughts and floods, and threats to species and economies. While some argue natural factors are responsible, the document asserts that human greenhouse gas emissions are the primary cause of current global warming trends.
Global warming refers to the long-term rise in the average temperature of the Earth's climate system. The primary cause is too much carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere from human activities like burning fossil fuels. Evidence shows the climate is warming, with ocean and land temperatures increasing since the 1950s. Most of the increased heat is absorbed by the oceans, with the remainder melting ice and warming the land and atmosphere. Warmer temperatures are causing changes to rainfall, storms, sea levels and animal behavior that threaten ecosystems.
Global warming refers to the long-term rise in the average temperature of the Earth's climate system, which has been proven by scientific societies to be caused primarily by human activities like burning fossil fuels that release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The effects of global warming include rising sea levels, melting polar ice caps, mass species extinction, changes in agricultural yields, depletion of the ozone layer, and more frequent extreme weather events. While global warming cannot be stopped immediately due to human routines, it can be controlled over time by contributing to solutions like recycling, limiting fossil fuel use, and reducing water pollution.
The document outlines the key points of a presentation on climate change including: what factors influence climate (sun output, earth orbit, greenhouse gases); evidence it is occurring through observed effects on snow/ice and ecosystems; reasons to care such as impacts of temperature rise on health and coastlines; how scientists are very sure that warming is caused by human activities; and potential actions that can be taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at both societal and individual levels.
The document presents information on climate change, including:
1) Various natural and human factors that can influence climate, with an emphasis on increasing greenhouse gases trapping more heat in the atmosphere.
2) Evidence of climate change effects like shrinking glaciers and changes in precipitation and ecosystems.
3) Reasons the impacts of climate change matter, such as risks to coastal populations from sea level rise and risks of severe weather events.
4) Discussion of scientific consensus around human-caused warming and its risks, though some uncertainties remain.
This document summarizes John Beattie's presentation on climate change. It discusses the various natural and human factors that can influence climate, including greenhouse gases. It presents evidence that climate change is occurring through observations of effects like retreating glaciers, changes in precipitation patterns and ecosystems, and rising sea levels. The document notes there is very high confidence among scientists that warming trends over the past few decades are likely due to human activity. While there is still uncertainty around the timing and impacts of climate change, there is consensus that action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Individual actions and policy-level solutions are proposed to mitigate and adapt to ongoing changes.
This document provides an overview of climate change by outlining what factors influence the climate, evidence that the climate is changing, the impacts of climate change, scientific consensus around human-caused warming, and potential actions to address it. The key points are that increasing greenhouse gases are trapping more heat in the atmosphere; effects include rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and sea level rise; and while uncertainties remain, scientists agree that climate change poses risks and reducing emissions can help mitigate further impacts.
The document discusses evidence that global warming is occurring rather than global cooling. It notes that the Earth's temperature has risen 1.4°F over the past century due to increased greenhouse gases from fossil fuel burning. This is causing Arctic ice to melt 5% per decade and glaciers worldwide to retreat. Rising sea levels and more extreme weather are threatening coastal communities. While some argue for global cooling, statistics show the last decade was the hottest on record and temperatures continue increasing, indicating the planet is warming rather than cooling.
Warming is believed to be caused by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases produced by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. The effects of an increase in global temperature include a rise in sea levels and a change in the amount and pattern of precipitation, as well a probable expansion of subtropical deserts.
The current policies that have been put in place to address climate change are likely to
lead to an increase in global temperature of 4°C before the end of this century. Even if the international community has committed, through the international agreements of
the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to a maximum warming
of 2°C, decisive action is still needed to reach this goal.
In a report prepared for the World Bank, the Potsdam Institute for Climate Change lays out the consequences of a warming of 4°C.
The document provides evidence that global warming is occurring due to human activity. It notes that carbon dioxide emissions have increased, most of the world has warmed, Arctic and Antarctic ice caps are melting faster than previously thought, global sea levels have risen 10-25 cm in the last century, and the greenhouse effect is trapping more heat due to increased greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane. While some natural climate variability occurs, mainstream scientists believe human emissions are enhancing the greenhouse effect and warning the planet, threatening life if emissions are not reduced. Burning fossil fuels also creates pollutants that cause "global dimming" by making clouds more reflective, offsetting warming slightly.
Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trapping heat in the atmosphere and warming the planet. It threatens life on Earth by raising sea levels, melting ice caps, and causing climatic changes. A survey found that more people turning off lights could help reduce global warming by decreasing emissions from energy production. The greenhouse effect currently warms the Earth, but unchecked warming will drastically change conditions worldwide if emissions are not reduced.
Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and raise temperatures. A report from 2500 scientists concluded that humans have caused current planetary warming through activities that release greenhouse gases. Effects of global warming include melting Arctic ice, threatened species, and more extreme weather events like hurricanes. Leaders like Prince Charles, Al Gore, and Barack Obama have expressed concern about global warming and the need for urgent action to address it.
This document discusses the risks of climate change, including how it is accelerating due to increasing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. It notes that while some climate change is natural, the recent warming is caused by human activity like burning fossil fuels. If emissions are not mitigated, global temperatures could increase by 3-4°C by 2100. The impacts of climate change are already being seen worldwide and pose severe risks to safety, food supplies, and the economy through increased extreme weather and rising insurance costs.
The document argues that global warming is not real and caused by human activity. It claims that over the last 11 years temperatures have cooled due to reduced sunspot activity. It also asserts that glaciers are getting thicker, not thinner, and that climate models are unreliable. The document concludes that natural factors like water vapor and volcanoes are more significant causes of atmospheric CO2 levels than human emissions.
Global warming is causing an increase in average global temperatures due to increased greenhouse gas emissions. This is leading to more frequent and intense hurricanes for three key reasons:
1) Warmer ocean temperatures provide more energy to fuel developing hurricanes.
2) Higher temperatures cause increased evaporation and more water vapor in the atmosphere, allowing hurricanes to strengthen more rapidly.
3) Data shows a rise in the number of strong hurricanes (categories 3-5) from the 1850s to present day as global warming has increased.
This video explains the many causes of global warming, some of its devastating effects, and things that you can do to help prevent the increase of global warming.
Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trapping heat in the atmosphere. This is leading to more extreme weather like stronger hurricanes, heavier rainfall, and longer/hotter heat waves. Other effects include melting glaciers and rising sea levels, which threaten cities like Miami. Studies also show that climate change has increased the risk of Australian bushfires and warming is happening twice as fast in Canada as the rest of the world, especially in Arctic regions, with many changes now considered irreversible.
This document argues that global warming is not real based on several claims:
1) Satellite and land temperature data show no warming or are inaccurate.
2) Computer models of global warming are not based on historical data and are inaccurate.
3) Past periods of warming, such as during the Vikings, showed benefits to humanity.
4) Efforts to reduce emissions will be very costly but have little effect on warming.
The greenhouse effect occurs naturally and helps regulate the Earth's temperature. Certain gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, trap heat from the sun similarly to how greenhouse gases keep heat inside a greenhouse. However, increased levels of greenhouse gases from human activity are amplifying this effect and causing the planet to warm through global warming, raising sea levels and intensifying weather events like droughts and floods.
Global warming is caused by human activities that have disrupted the natural greenhouse gas effect and caused global temperatures to rise beyond critical levels. The document outlines key events in documenting global warming such as Charles Keeling's measurements of CO2 levels in 1958 and the effect of the 1991 Pinatubo eruption in reducing temperatures temporarily. It describes the greenhouse gases that cause warming and their effects. The document calls for reducing greenhouse gas emissions through various individual and societal changes to stop global warming.
The document discusses climate change, global warming, and the greenhouse effect. It explains that climate change occurs due to global warming, which happens as a result of the greenhouse effect trapping heat. The greenhouse effect is caused by an increase in heat-trapping gases like methane and CO2 released by human activities. If unchecked, global warming could lead to rising sea levels from melting ice, stronger hurricanes, droughts and floods, and threats to species and economies. While some argue natural factors are responsible, the document asserts that human greenhouse gas emissions are the primary cause of current global warming trends.
Global warming refers to the long-term rise in the average temperature of the Earth's climate system. The primary cause is too much carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere from human activities like burning fossil fuels. Evidence shows the climate is warming, with ocean and land temperatures increasing since the 1950s. Most of the increased heat is absorbed by the oceans, with the remainder melting ice and warming the land and atmosphere. Warmer temperatures are causing changes to rainfall, storms, sea levels and animal behavior that threaten ecosystems.
Global warming refers to the long-term rise in the average temperature of the Earth's climate system, which has been proven by scientific societies to be caused primarily by human activities like burning fossil fuels that release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The effects of global warming include rising sea levels, melting polar ice caps, mass species extinction, changes in agricultural yields, depletion of the ozone layer, and more frequent extreme weather events. While global warming cannot be stopped immediately due to human routines, it can be controlled over time by contributing to solutions like recycling, limiting fossil fuel use, and reducing water pollution.
The document outlines the key points of a presentation on climate change including: what factors influence climate (sun output, earth orbit, greenhouse gases); evidence it is occurring through observed effects on snow/ice and ecosystems; reasons to care such as impacts of temperature rise on health and coastlines; how scientists are very sure that warming is caused by human activities; and potential actions that can be taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at both societal and individual levels.
The document presents information on climate change, including:
1) Various natural and human factors that can influence climate, with an emphasis on increasing greenhouse gases trapping more heat in the atmosphere.
2) Evidence of climate change effects like shrinking glaciers and changes in precipitation and ecosystems.
3) Reasons the impacts of climate change matter, such as risks to coastal populations from sea level rise and risks of severe weather events.
4) Discussion of scientific consensus around human-caused warming and its risks, though some uncertainties remain.
This document summarizes John Beattie's presentation on climate change. It discusses the various natural and human factors that can influence climate, including greenhouse gases. It presents evidence that climate change is occurring through observations of effects like retreating glaciers, changes in precipitation patterns and ecosystems, and rising sea levels. The document notes there is very high confidence among scientists that warming trends over the past few decades are likely due to human activity. While there is still uncertainty around the timing and impacts of climate change, there is consensus that action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Individual actions and policy-level solutions are proposed to mitigate and adapt to ongoing changes.
This document provides an overview of climate change by outlining what factors influence the climate, evidence that the climate is changing, the impacts of climate change, scientific consensus around human-caused warming, and potential actions to address it. The key points are that increasing greenhouse gases are trapping more heat in the atmosphere; effects include rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and sea level rise; and while uncertainties remain, scientists agree that climate change poses risks and reducing emissions can help mitigate further impacts.
Climate change and Global Warming by Kiersten LippmannKiersten Lippmann
Beautiful, graphic rich slides to engage students based on Essential Environment by Withgott and Laposota. Slides cover Chapter 14 Global Climate Change
The document discusses global climate change and summarizes the findings of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The IPCC concludes that warming of the climate is occurring and is very likely due to human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. The IPCC reports observe increasing global temperatures, melting ice and snow, and rising sea levels. Greenhouse gas levels are at the highest levels in hundreds of thousands of years and will likely cause continued warming and sea level rise for centuries. The document also notes potential effects like increased wildfires, species extinctions, and more severe heat waves.
Global warming is occurring due to increasing greenhouse gases from human activities. Climate models predict further warming this century. For the Northwest, high-resolution models show declining snowpack and more winter rainfall. Earlier snowmelt exposes slopes to more solar heating. While annual precipitation trends are small, seasons may shift, with warmer fall temperatures and relatively cooler, cloudier springs due to stronger onshore flow. Local effects depend on terrain, but global warming risks are serious and reductions in emissions are needed to limit future impacts.
This document summarizes a presentation about using information and communication technologies (ICT) to adapt to rather than mitigate global warming. Some key points:
- Mitigation efforts alone will not be enough to address climate change, and adaptation strategies are now needed to survive the impacts.
- ICT sector growth is contributing to energy demand and emissions but can also provide solutions if designed to use renewable energy not connected to the grid.
- Examples of ICT adaptation solutions proposed include building an "Energy Internet" and moving data centers to remote renewable energy sites instead of cities.
- Rewarding carbon reductions through ICT services like broadband could be an alternative to carbon taxes.
New business opportunities with zero carbon thinking and how California suburban lifestyle may be the answer to global warming and the need to adapt to a warmer climate through IT - the Energy Internet
Climate Change and Ozone Depletion.pptssuserca5764
The document discusses climate change and ozone depletion. It summarizes how the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo affected global climate temperatures and how climate has varied over geological time periods. It then discusses human contributions to greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on global warming, including rising sea levels and melting glaciers and ice sheets. The document also summarizes the scientific understanding of stratospheric ozone depletion by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and efforts taken under the Montreal Protocol to regulate ozone-depleting substances.
Dr Colin Fenwick explains the scientific evidence that the climate is changing. Then goes on to explain the drivers behind global warming. Understand the scientific evidence and facts for yourself without any political spin. See it on Youtube: https://youtu.be/y-NSlR_UHDE
The document discusses several key points about global warming:
1) Global warming is caused by increased greenhouse gases trapping heat in the atmosphere like glass in a greenhouse. This has led to rising global temperatures and impacts that are already being felt.
2) Impacts of global warming include melting ice caps and glaciers, rising sea levels, changes in weather patterns, and effects on plants and animals like coral bleaching and penguin population declines.
3) Individuals can help address global warming by calculating their carbon footprint, reducing energy use, supporting renewable energy and policies that encourage energy efficiency and carbon neutrality. Reducing greenhouse gases is important to mitigate further global temperature increases and impacts of climate change.
The document discusses the greenhouse effect and its history. It explains that the greenhouse effect occurs when greenhouse gases in the atmosphere absorb and re-radiate thermal radiation from the surface, warming the lower atmosphere and surface. It then discusses the work of Svante Arrhenius in the 1890s recognizing this phenomenon and the subsequent research verifying it. The document also outlines the main greenhouse gases and their varying impacts on global temperatures. Finally, it discusses some of the environmental, economic, and human health impacts of increased greenhouse gas emissions and potential solutions like transitioning to renewable energy and reducing emissions and pollution.
Global warming is caused by increased greenhouse gas emissions from human activities like burning fossil fuels. If left unaddressed, it will have severe consequences including rising sea levels that flood coastal areas, more frequent extreme weather events, species extinction, and reduced agricultural yields. The vast majority of scientists agree that climate change poses a major threat. Adapting to its impacts and transitioning to renewable energy are necessary to avoid its worst effects and ensure economic and environmental sustainability. Collective global action is urgently needed to facilitate this transition and mitigate the risks of climate change.
The document discusses the greenhouse effect and global warming. It explains that the greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon that warms the Earth's surface through greenhouse gases, but human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation have increased greenhouse gas levels and exacerbated the effect. This has led to increased global temperatures, rising sea levels, and more extreme weather events. The future effects of climate change if warming continues include worse droughts and hurricanes, species extinction, reduced crop yields, and risks to infrastructure and habitats from sea level rise. Solutions proposed to address global warming include reducing fossil fuel use, improving efficiency, planting trees, and transitioning to renewable energy.
Global climate change and us environmental law power point presentation fi...Sam Bleicher
This document outlines a presentation on global climate change and US environmental law. It discusses the effects of climate change like rising sea levels and more extreme weather. It then explains the causes, like increasing greenhouse gas emissions from human activities like burning fossil fuels. Major sources of emissions are identified as China, the US, and the EU. The cumulative nature of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is also summarized.
AAUW St. George UT Branch Member Candice Hansen-Koharcheck, PhD, gave a presentation on "Climate Change: Scientific Fact vs. Political Fiction" at the March 2015 luncheon. Candice is a senior research scientist at the Planetary Science Institute who works on NASA un-manned (robotic) spacecraft missions. She has a Ph.D. in Planetary Science. Currently she is a member of the flight teams for the Cassini spacecraft, in orbit around Saturn, the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, at Mars, and the Juno mission, headed to Jupiter, from her office in St. George.
Introduction of Cybersecurity with OSS at Code Europe 2024Hiroshi SHIBATA
I develop the Ruby programming language, RubyGems, and Bundler, which are package managers for Ruby. Today, I will introduce how to enhance the security of your application using open-source software (OSS) examples from Ruby and RubyGems.
The first topic is CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures). I have published CVEs many times. But what exactly is a CVE? I'll provide a basic understanding of CVEs and explain how to detect and handle vulnerabilities in OSS.
Next, let's discuss package managers. Package managers play a critical role in the OSS ecosystem. I'll explain how to manage library dependencies in your application.
I'll share insights into how the Ruby and RubyGems core team works to keep our ecosystem safe. By the end of this talk, you'll have a better understanding of how to safeguard your code.
Taking AI to the Next Level in Manufacturing.pdfssuserfac0301
Read Taking AI to the Next Level in Manufacturing to gain insights on AI adoption in the manufacturing industry, such as:
1. How quickly AI is being implemented in manufacturing.
2. Which barriers stand in the way of AI adoption.
3. How data quality and governance form the backbone of AI.
4. Organizational processes and structures that may inhibit effective AI adoption.
6. Ideas and approaches to help build your organization's AI strategy.
Monitoring and Managing Anomaly Detection on OpenShift.pdfTosin Akinosho
Monitoring and Managing Anomaly Detection on OpenShift
Overview
Dive into the world of anomaly detection on edge devices with our comprehensive hands-on tutorial. This SlideShare presentation will guide you through the entire process, from data collection and model training to edge deployment and real-time monitoring. Perfect for those looking to implement robust anomaly detection systems on resource-constrained IoT/edge devices.
Key Topics Covered
1. Introduction to Anomaly Detection
- Understand the fundamentals of anomaly detection and its importance in identifying unusual behavior or failures in systems.
2. Understanding Edge (IoT)
- Learn about edge computing and IoT, and how they enable real-time data processing and decision-making at the source.
3. What is ArgoCD?
- Discover ArgoCD, a declarative, GitOps continuous delivery tool for Kubernetes, and its role in deploying applications on edge devices.
4. Deployment Using ArgoCD for Edge Devices
- Step-by-step guide on deploying anomaly detection models on edge devices using ArgoCD.
5. Introduction to Apache Kafka and S3
- Explore Apache Kafka for real-time data streaming and Amazon S3 for scalable storage solutions.
6. Viewing Kafka Messages in the Data Lake
- Learn how to view and analyze Kafka messages stored in a data lake for better insights.
7. What is Prometheus?
- Get to know Prometheus, an open-source monitoring and alerting toolkit, and its application in monitoring edge devices.
8. Monitoring Application Metrics with Prometheus
- Detailed instructions on setting up Prometheus to monitor the performance and health of your anomaly detection system.
9. What is Camel K?
- Introduction to Camel K, a lightweight integration framework built on Apache Camel, designed for Kubernetes.
10. Configuring Camel K Integrations for Data Pipelines
- Learn how to configure Camel K for seamless data pipeline integrations in your anomaly detection workflow.
11. What is a Jupyter Notebook?
- Overview of Jupyter Notebooks, an open-source web application for creating and sharing documents with live code, equations, visualizations, and narrative text.
12. Jupyter Notebooks with Code Examples
- Hands-on examples and code snippets in Jupyter Notebooks to help you implement and test anomaly detection models.
A Comprehensive Guide to DeFi Development Services in 2024Intelisync
DeFi represents a paradigm shift in the financial industry. Instead of relying on traditional, centralized institutions like banks, DeFi leverages blockchain technology to create a decentralized network of financial services. This means that financial transactions can occur directly between parties, without intermediaries, using smart contracts on platforms like Ethereum.
In 2024, we are witnessing an explosion of new DeFi projects and protocols, each pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in finance.
In summary, DeFi in 2024 is not just a trend; it’s a revolution that democratizes finance, enhances security and transparency, and fosters continuous innovation. As we proceed through this presentation, we'll explore the various components and services of DeFi in detail, shedding light on how they are transforming the financial landscape.
At Intelisync, we specialize in providing comprehensive DeFi development services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. From smart contract development to dApp creation and security audits, we ensure that your DeFi project is built with innovation, security, and scalability in mind. Trust Intelisync to guide you through the intricate landscape of decentralized finance and unlock the full potential of blockchain technology.
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Power Grid Model
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What to expect
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Beginning with the foundational definition, Das clarifies the pivotal role of OS as system software orchestrating hardware resources, software applications, and user interactions. Through succinct descriptions, he delineates the diverse types of OS, from single-user, single-task environments like early MS-DOS iterations, to multi-user, multi-tasking systems exemplified by modern Linux distributions.
Crucial components like the kernel and shell are dissected, highlighting their indispensable functions in resource management and user interface interaction. Das elucidates how the kernel acts as the central nervous system, orchestrating process scheduling, memory allocation, and device management. Meanwhile, the shell serves as the gateway for user commands, bridging the gap between human input and machine execution. 💻
The narrative then shifts to a captivating exploration of prominent desktop OSs, Windows, macOS, and Linux. Windows, with its globally ubiquitous presence and user-friendly interface, emerges as a cornerstone in personal computing history. macOS, lauded for its sleek design and seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem, stands as a beacon of stability and creativity. Linux, an open-source marvel, offers unparalleled flexibility and security, revolutionizing the computing landscape. 🖥️
Moving to the realm of mobile devices, Das unravels the dominance of Android and iOS. Android's open-source ethos fosters a vibrant ecosystem of customization and innovation, while iOS boasts a seamless user experience and robust security infrastructure. Meanwhile, discontinued platforms like Symbian and Palm OS evoke nostalgia for their pioneering roles in the smartphone revolution.
The journey concludes with a reflection on the ever-evolving landscape of OS, underscored by the emergence of real-time operating systems (RTOS) and the persistent quest for innovation and efficiency. As technology continues to shape our world, understanding the foundations and evolution of operating systems remains paramount. Join Pravash Chandra Das on this illuminating journey through the heart of computing. 🌟
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TrustArc Webinar - 2024 Global Privacy SurveyTrustArc
How does your privacy program stack up against your peers? What challenges are privacy teams tackling and prioritizing in 2024?
In the fifth annual Global Privacy Benchmarks Survey, we asked over 1,800 global privacy professionals and business executives to share their perspectives on the current state of privacy inside and outside of their organizations. This year’s report focused on emerging areas of importance for privacy and compliance professionals, including considerations and implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, building brand trust, and different approaches for achieving higher privacy competence scores.
See how organizational priorities and strategic approaches to data security and privacy are evolving around the globe.
This webinar will review:
- The top 10 privacy insights from the fifth annual Global Privacy Benchmarks Survey
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- Key themes to consider in developing and maintaining your privacy program
18. 2003 European Heat Wave
Germany: Lowest river levels
this century
Switzerland: Melting
glaciers, avalanches
France: >14,000
deaths
Portugal: Forest fires
U.K.: Train rails buckle
19. Sea-level rise projections : a few inches to a few feet
•2 ft: U.S. would lose 10,000 square miles
•3 ft: Would inundate Miami
•Affects erosion, loss of wetlands, freshwater supplies
•Half of the world’s population lives along coasts
•Big question: Ice sheets
20.
21. How sure are scientists?
What don’t we know?
• Is there some critical piece of the about climate process we don’t
understand?
• How and when will our fossil fuel use change?
• Will future , yet-to-be-discovered technologies mitigate the problem?
• How will changing economics, global population, and political processes
affect our ability to tackle the problem?
23. 2007 Conclusions
• Warming of the climate system is unequivocal
• Very high confidence that global average net effect of
human activities since 1750 one of warming
• Human-caused warming over last 30 years has likely had
a visible influence on many physical and biological
systems
• Continued GHG emissions at or above current rates
would cause further warming and induce many changes
in the global climate system during the 21st
century that
would very likely be larger than those observed during
the 20th
century.”
24. Consensus?
• Do we know enough about the
drivers of climate to know what
causes change?
• Are we underestimating the Earth
system’s complexity ?
• Can models accurately simulate
the complex climate system?
•Are there processes that will limit
warming naturally?
25. On the other hand…
• Arctic sea ice melting faster than predicted.
• Fossil fuel emissions exceeded most IPCC
projections.
• Are assumptions about global energy use are
too optimistic?
•How quickly can developing countries reduce
GHG emissions?
• Calculations don’t include unexpected melting
in Greenland and Antarctica.
30. Produce more fuel-efficient vehicles
Reduce vehicle use
Improve energy-efficiency in buildings
Develop carbon capture and storage processes
Triple nuclear power
Increase solar power
Decrease deforestation/plant forests
Improve soil carbon management strategies
31. Individual actions
Use mass
transit, bike,
walk, roller
skate
Tune up
your
furnace
Unplug
appliances or
plug into a
power strip and
switch it off
Buy water-saving
appliances and
toilets; installing
low-flow shower
heads.
Caulk,
weatherstrip,
insulate, and
replace old
windows
Buy products
with a U.S. EPA
Energy Star
label
Editor's Notes
The topic of climate change is like a puzzle with many different pieces—oceans, the atmosphere, ecosystems, polar ice, natural and human influences. Scientists have been working on this puzzle for more than a century, and while there are still gaps in our knowledge, most experts feel we have the puzzle is complete enough to show that human activities are having an adverse effect on our planet. This talks looks at many of those puzzle pieces, the evidence behind them, and the conclusions we can draw from them.
Talk—and module--outline
Scientists have a good understanding of what has changed earth’s climate in the past:
Incoming solar radiation is the main climate driver. Its energy output increased about 0.1% from 1750 to 1950, increasing temperatures by 0.2°F (0.1°C) in the first part of the 20th century. But since 1979, when we began taking measurements from space, the data show no long-term change in total solar energy, even though Earth has been warming.
Repetitive cycles in Earth’s orbit that occur over tens of thousands of years can influence the angle and timing of sunlight.
In the distant past, drifting continents make a big difference in climate over millions of years by changing ice caps at the poles and by altering ocean currents, which transport heat and cold throughout the ocean depths.
Huge volcanic eruptions can cool Earth by injecting ash and tiny particles into the stratosphere.
Changes in the concentration of greenhouse gases, which occur both naturally and as a result of human activities, also influence Earth’s climate.
[Image 1] Earth’s surface absorbs heat from the sun and then re-radiates it back into the atmosphere and to space.
[click, Image 2] Much of this heat is absorbed by greenhouse gases, which then send the heat back to the surface, to other greenhouse gas molecules, or out to space. Though only 1% of atmospheric gases are greenhouse gases, they are extremely powerful heat trappers. By burning fossil fuels faster and faster, humans are effectively piling on more blankets, heating the planet so much and so quickly that it’s hard for Mother Nature and human societies to adapt.
While there are many substances that act as greenhouse gases, two of the most important are water and carbon dioxide, or CO2.
[Image 1] CO2 comes from a variety of sources. For example, plants take up carbon dioxide in the air to make wood, stems, and leaves, and then release it back into the air when the leaves fall or the plants die. The concern today is that fossil fuel use is putting huge amounts of CO2 in the atmosphere at a rate faster than the climate system can adapt to.
[click, Image 2] In addition, the warming resulting from CO2 and other greenhouse gases also has the effect of increasing evaporation. This adds water vapor to the atmosphere as well. Water vapor is the most important gas in the natural greenhouse effect, contributing 60% of the effect to carbon dioxide’s 26%. And in fact, satellites have detected an increase in atmospheric moisture over the oceans at a rate of 4% per degree F of warming (7% per degree C) since 1988. This additional water vapor amplifies the warming effect.
Certainly, past temperatures past have been higher (and lower) than today, and
CO2 concentrations have also varied. Large global swings were probably caused by such things as changes in Earth’s orbit, which changed the distribution of sunlight over the planet. When this caused warming, more CO2 and other greenhouse gases were released, producing additional warming.
[click to reveal today’s CO2 level] But today, the CO2 released by human activities is far above amounts in the previous 800,000 years. This CO2 is triggering the increase in temperatures we’ve seen.
Earth is getting warmer by virtually every measure we know, and the temperature has been well above normal for more than 25 years. Although increases of 1.0-1.6°F (0.6-0.9°C) over the last century or so may not sound very threatening, remember that’s a global average. The warming is stronger over land than over oceans and in the higher latitudes than in the tropics.
[Image 1] Snow and ice reflect the sun’s energy back to space. Without this white cover, more water can evaporate into the atmosphere where it acts as a greenhouse gas, and the ground absorbs more heat. Snow and ice are melting at rates unseen for thousands of years. In Glacier National Park, for example, there were 150 glaciers in 1850. Today, there are 26.
[click, Image 2] Sea ice is dwindling too, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. Satellites have seen average Arctic sea ice shrink by 2.7% per decade from 1978 to 2006, with faster melting in summer.
[Image 1] More water vapor held by a warmer atmosphere also leads to heavier rains and more snowfall. Intense precipitation over the U.S. has increased 20% over the last century.
[click, Image 2] But as storm tracks shift, it can also mean some areas get drier. A 2004 study by the National Center for Atmospheric Research found that the percentage of Earth’s land experiencing serious drought had more than doubled since the 1970s.
Increased warmth has also affected living things. For example, the Japanese keep very detailed records on the blossoming of their Tokyo cherry trees, so they know they are blooming 5 days earlier on average than they were 50 years ago.
Also mosquitoes, birds, and insects are moving north in the Northern Hemisphere.
Scientists learn about the past climate conditions from such things as tree ring analysis, fossil evidence, and analysis of patterns and chemical composition in coral skeletons and ice cores.
We know about the present changes from observations taken at the surface and in the atmosphere.
One of the questions often asked is if the warming isn’t an artifact of urban heat islands or changes in how measurements are done. Scientists have looked at this extensively. For example, when a NASA group removed all but 200 true rural sites, the warming pattern persisted. a U.S. National Climatic Data Center study found no statistically significant urban heat island effect in 289 U.S. stations. And finally, even though there are no cities in the oceans, warming has been measured over them too.
[Image 1] The main tool for both past and present climate analyses are computer climate models. Much like the models used to forecast weather, climate models simulate the climate system with a 3-dimensional grid that extends through the land, ocean, and atmosphere. The grid may have 10 to 60 different levels in the atmosphere and surface grid spacings of about 60 by 90 miles (100 by 150 km)—the size of Connecticut. The models perform trillions of calculations that describe changes in many climate factors in the grid.
[click, Image 2] The models project possible climates based on scenarios that cover a range of assumptions about global population, greenhouse gas emissions, technologies, fuel sources, etc. The model results provide a range of possible impacts based on these assumptions.
[Image 1] A common critique of climate predictions is, “If weather model forecasts aren’t reliable more than a week out, how can models predict climate decades in the future?” While weather and climate models are based on similar physics, they are not predicting the same thing. Weather forecasts look at the day-to-day changes on a local level, and subtle chaotic atmospheric variations make short-term weather forecasts difficult beyond 8-10 days.
[click, Image 2] Climate predictions are focused on longer-term influences of the sun, oceans, land, and ice on the atmosphere. Instead of predicting a temperature at a particular place at a particular hour, climate modules project an average temperature over a year or longer in a large region or over the entire globe.
Climate models are not only used to look at how climate might change, they’re also used to figure out WHY it’s changing. When models are run with only natural influences from the sun and volcanic eruptions, they say that during the latter half of the 20th century, we would have expected little change from normal conditions (the blue line). Only the addition of human emissions (greenhouse gases, sulfates, and ozone) produce the model results in red that most closely reproduce the black line of actual observations.
So, although they aren’t perfect, climate models can reproduce many of the larger features of climate change in Earth’s distant past, and they replicate the pattern of warming in the last 100+ years. This gives us confidence that they correctly identify that the warming is due to man’s activities, and that projections of future warming are realistic.
Global average temperatures are expected to increase by about 2-13°F (1-7°C) by the end of the century. That may not sound like a lot, so what’s the big deal? The problem is that small changes in global average temperature can lead to really large changes in the environment. Let’s look at some of the expected changes.
[Image 1] There will always be natural variability, and some places and some years will be warmer or cooler than average. In general, however, summers will get hotter, not only because of higher temperatures but also because humidities will increase. That means that heat waves, like the one that killed 35,000 people in Europe in 2003, will become more common.
[click, Image 2] On the plus side, winters will be warmer in many places, reducing heating bills. And the number of days with frosts is likely to decrease.
The oceans will continue their rise in the coming century. The IPCC’s best estimates range from a few inches to a few feet by 2100. If the rise is 2 feet, the US could lose 10,000 square miles, If they rise three, they will inundate Miami and most of coastal Florida. Sea-level rise also increases coastal erosion and the loss of coastal wetlands, and saltwater spoils freshwater drinking supplies. Coastal populations become even more vulnerable to storm surge and flooding. Considering that half of the world’s population lives near coasts, sea-level rise is a serious concern.
The big unknown in all this is how much the planet’s ice sheets will melt.
[Image 1] A warming planet means continuing changes in its ecosystems. As the oceans absorb more carbon dioxide, the chemistry of the ocean changes, putting many sea creatures at risk. The IPCC projects that by 2100 the pH of the ocean will drop to its lowest point in at least 20 million years.
[click, Image 2] As temperatures get milder, mosquitoes, ticks, rodents, and other disease carriers will expand their range, particularly in developing countries. Here in the U.S., dengue hemorrhagic fever, a tropical, mosquito-borne disease, hit for the first time in modern times in 2005 in the Lower Rio Grande Valley.
[click, Image 3] Warmer temperatures will also mean less snow overall at certain latitudes because more will fall as rain, and the snow that does fall will melt faster. This affects people living in areas that depend on snow-fed reservoirs for water.
[click, Image 4] The IPCC projects increases of 5-20% in crop yields in the first decades of this century. but the crops will be more prone to failure if climate variability increases and precipitation becomes less dependable. And ironically, with higher temperatures comes an increased potential for killing freezes. This is because plants start growing earlier, making them more vulnerable to sudden spring-time cold spells.
Nothing in science is 100% certain
There are no laboratory experiments that can tell us what the future will be—the planet IS the test tube
[click to reveal bullets] What don’t we know?
Is there some climate process we don’t know about? So far, research over the years has strengthened the conclusion that humans are adversely influencing climate, but scientific knowledge is still evolving
We don’t know how things might change in the future, such as
Will alternative energy sources become widely available? How soon?
Will some yet-to-be-discovered technology be able to clean CO2 out of the air?
How will changing economics, global population, and political processes affect our ability to tackle the problem?
[Image 1] The International Panel on Climate Change, the group that produces the main reports on climate change, is a scientific intergovernmental body set up by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and by the United Nations Environment Programme in 1988.
[click, Image 2] The IPCC process involves hundreds of scientists from about 140 countries, a variety of fields, and a range of views. Their function is to assess the latest peer-reviewed literature, [click Image 3] compare different computer model results from various sources, and to achieve consensus about where the weight of the evidence points and where uncertainties lie. And
Based on the evidence accumulated over the last 40 years, these are some of their main conclusions. The words in red were very carefully chosen to reflect quantifiable estimates. So Very High Confidence and means the statement has at least a 9 out of 10 chance of being correct, Very Likely means the scientists are more than 90% sure, and Likely means they are more than 66% sure.
But what about those who disagree?
Scientists ALWAYS disagree
Although many statements that climate change is bogus are based on false or incomplete information, there have also been some legitimate scientific criticisms of climate change science. It’s important to separate one from the other, particularly since misinformation can be stubbornly persistent, especially on the Internet.
The important questions posed by reputable climate scientists who disagree with most of their peers are these:
Do we know enough about the drivers of climate to know what causes change?
Are we underestimating the Earth system’s complexity ?
Are climate models good enough to accurately simulate the complex climate system?
Are there processes that will limit warming naturally by producing a negative feedback?
Over the last 40 years, various theories have been proposed, components of climate understanding have been questioned, data have been critiqued (and prompted adjustments), but so far no credible competing explanations have been shown to fit the preponderance of evidence.
Also, there are scientists who disagree with the IPCC—they believe the conclusions are too conservative and that things will be worse than projected.
There is some evidence to support their views. Arctic sea ice is melting much faster than scientists predicted. Also, actual fossil fuel emissions in recent years have exceeded all but the highest IPCC projections, growing four times faster than in the 1990s. Some argue that the IPCC near-future assumptions about global energy use are too optimistic. A recent study also concludes that the IPCC estimates were too rosy with regard to how quickly developing countries will be able to afford technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientists in this camp also say sea levels may rise far more than we anticipate because our calculations aren’t taking into account the unexpectedly large melting of the Greenland and Antarctic Ice Sheets.
[Image 1] A survey conducted in 2007 by George Mason University of U.S. scientists who have expertise in climate science (not just a scientific background) what they think.
97% of the 489 respondents agreed that “global average temperatures have increased” during the past century. That’s up from 60% in 1991.
[click, Image 2] 84% believe human activities are causing the warming, and only 5% disagree.
So the survey does indicate the bulk of climate scientists—those most knowledgeable about the field—now agree that human activity contributes to global warming.
As with all science that affects our lives, we need to be educated consumers. Do your homework, starting with the IPCC reports. All of the reports provide interesting information, although they are lengthy and quite technical. The AR4 Synthesis Report is easy to read and provides a good summary of the other reports. Also look at the work from other authoritative sources such as the National Academies of Science and the U.S. Climate Change Science Program.
When looking at information (particularly on the Web), search out contrasting opinions to see what others say about a topic.
And evaluate the source—is it someone with real expertise, or just someone with an opinion.
Reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and our use of fossil fuels will not be easy, but it is doable. Here’s how some researchers at Princeton view it.
Our current path is toward doubling CO2 emissions in the next 50 years, with even greater increases beyond that. In order to get off this path, we need to find ways to keep [8] emissions constant for the next 50 years and then reduce them during the second half of the century. This would [9] limit atmospheric CO2 to about 570 ppm—still greater than the roughly 380 ppm in the atmosphere today, but enough to avoid the worst predicted consequences.
[Image 1] In order to hold carbon emissions constant over the next 50 years, we need to find some combination of ways to cut 8 billion tons of carbon emissions per year. In the graph, the difference between where we are and where we’d like to be forms a triangle with a height of 8 billion tons in 2055.
[Image 1] This triangle can be divided into 8 wedges representing one billion tons each.
Here are examples of 8 technologies that could save 8 billion tons, or 8 wedges, of carbon. Some of these we could do right away, while others are based on technologies still being studied, such as capturing and storing carbon.
[Details on strategies:
Efficient vehicles: Double car fuel efficiency in 2055 from 30 miles per gallon (mpg) to 60 mpg
Reduced vehicle use: Halve the miles traveled by the world’s cars in 2055
Efficient buildings: Cut emissions by 25% in all buildings
CCS electricity: Capture and store carbon from 800 large coal power plants or 1600 large natural gas power plants
Triple the world’s current nuclear capacity
Solar electricity: Increase solar capacity 700 times
Forest storage: Halve global deforestation and double forest planting in 50 years
Soil storage: Apply carbon management strategies to all of the world’s farm fields]
This list represents only some of the possible strategies, but choosing strategies will not be easy. However, the longer we wait to reduce emissions, the higher the target will need to be, and the more adaptation will be necessary. In 2004, when the wedges concept was first introduced, the target was only 7 billion tons.
As you can see, there are many ways society can approach the struggle to reduce carbon emissions, but there is no single solution. Many of the strategies mentioned are the realm of governments. And the ever-growing world population means that we’ll have to work that much harder to reduce global emissions. But on an individual level, there are many things you can do to make a difference.
[click to reveal examples]
Lots of other ideas are available on the Internet.
Scientists are still working on the puzzle. The IPCC’s 5th Assessment Report is planned for 2013-2014. Climate models are being improved, more data is being collected. However, the puzzle is already complete enough to know we need to take action.