Global warming refers to the increase in average temperatures around the world due to rising levels of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases occur naturally but human activities like burning fossil fuels have increased their levels, trapping more heat from the sun and changing the climate. Effects of global warming include melting ice caps, rising sea levels, more extreme weather, and threats to human health and agriculture. Individual actions like using less energy, driving less, recycling, and planting trees can help address the problem.

1. ALARMING!

2. GLOBAL WARMING OR CLIMATE CHANGE -refer to an increase in average global temperatures. Scientists believe Earth is currently facing a period of rapid warming brought on by rising levels of heat-trapping gases, known as greenhouse gases , in the atmosphere.

3. -retain the radiant energy (heat) provided to Earth by the Sun in a process known as the greenhouse effect. Greenhouse gases occur naturally, and without them the planet would be too cold to sustain life as we know it. Greenhouse gases

4. WHAT CAUSES GLOBAL WARMING? Sunlight brings energy to the Earth. This light turns to heat when it hits the ground. The heat in turn seeps away from the Earth, but the atmosphere slows the heat’s escape. The atmosphere is a layer of air around the planet. It holds in some of the warmth.

5. What’s the big deal on GLOBAL WARMING? Levels of greenhouse gases are increasing in the atmosphere due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels and are changing the composition of the atmosphere and global warming.

6. Effects of Global Warming Melting of ice caps More pest invading due to warmer temperatures Vanishing islands Rising tides Water shortages and decreases in agricultural productivity and food security Health will be threatened by heat stress As extreme climate events increase in strength and frequency, more and more people will risk losing their homes and lives.

7. What should we do? for more, visit websites regarding on fighting global warming Use energy-saving bulbs Drive smarter Save fuel Lessen use of carbon emitting fixtures Plant more trees Recycle

8. ACT NOW!

9. Sources: http://www.globalissues.org/article/233/climate-change-and-global-warming-introduction#WhatisGlobalWarmingandClimateChange Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.