CLIMATE CHANGE AT A GLANCE
Earth Day 2023 was on April 22. The earth faces tough challenges, especially global warming and climate change. 1.Definitions Global warming : increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to the release of greenhouse gases. Climate change : long-term changes in the climate system, including changes in weather patterns as a result of global warning 2. History 1824: Joseph Fourier describes the greenhouse effect, the process by which gases like methane and carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere trap and absorb heat, leading to warming of the planet's surface. 1896: Svante Arrhenius calculates the effects of CO2 on global temperatures 1938: Guy Stewart Callendar links CO2 emissions to rising temperatures 1958: Charles David Keeling begins measuring CO2 concentrations 1979: World Climate Conference acknowledges human influence on climate 3. The Present State of Climate Change A. Impact of human activities on climate change Fossil fuel combustion: major source of greenhouse gas emissions Deforestation: loss of carbon sinks and biodiversity Agriculture and livestock: methane emissions and land-use changes B. Observed consequences Global temperature increase: average of 1.2°C since preindustrial times Extreme weather events: heatwaves, droughts, storms, and floods Melting ice caps and glaciers: sea level rise and disruption to ecosystems C. Current international efforts 2015: Paris Agreement – global commitment to limit temperature rise 2021: COP26 – renewed focus on climate finance and net-zero targets Ongoing initiatives: renewable energy, reforestation, carbon capture 4. The Path Forward Decarbonizing energy production: solar, wind, nuclear, and hydro Electrifying transportation: electric vehicles and public transit Enhancing energy efficiency: green buildings and smart grids 5. Conclusion : The history of climate change research informs current understanding Urgent need for collective global action to mitigate impacts Continued innovation and collaboration necessary for a sustainable future
