Global warming is an issue that affects all of us. It is a real threat, not only to our lifestyle, but also to our planet.
The Evidence
The cause of global warming has proven to be of human origin and there is hard evidence proving this:
Since the beginning of the 20th century, the average surface temperature of the earth has increased by about 0.6° Celsius
Over the last 40 years, which is the period with most reliable data, the temperature increased by 0.2 - 0.3° Celsius
Warming in the 20th century is greater than at any time during the past 400-600 years
Seven of the ten warmest years in the 20th century occurred in the 1990s. 1998, with global temperatures spiking due to one of the strongest El Niños on record, was the hottest year since reliable instrumental temperature measurements began
Mountain glaciers the world over are receding
The Arctic ice pack has lost about 40% of its thickness over the past four decades
The global sea level is rising about three times faster over the past 100 years compared to the previous 3,000 years
There are a growing number of studies that show plants and animals changing their range and behaviour in response to shifts in climate.
The Results
The problem with global warming is that it is causing the whole planets climate to change. This means that the weather patterns for all area of the globe changing towards a warmer causing:
A faster rise in sea level
More heat waves and droughts, resulting in more and more conflicts for water resources
More extreme weather events, producing floods and property destruction
A greater potential for heat-related illnesses and deaths
Wider spread of infectious diseases carried by insects and rodents into areas previously free from them.
The Solution
The main cause of global warming is big businesses. Oil is still the major source of energy for cars, and it is so because it is cheap. No businesses would want to risk very low returns just 'for the environment'.
Global warming results primarily from human activities that release heat-trapping gases and particles into the air. The best way we can slow global warming is by watching what we release into the atmosphere. Some ways to do this are:
Reduce the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and oil
Stop deforestation and protect the world’s forests
Use technologies that reduce the amount of emissions wherever possible
There are more way to help our planet survive:
Support governments, industry, communities and individuals that have a 'Clean Green Image'
Help educate other about global warming
Support clean running, well tuned cars
Reduce your use of electricity
Reduce your use of cars by traveling by Bike, Bus, and Walk
Recycle
Buy products that don't use as much energy
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