Monday, December 3, 2012

Is the Earth Warming Because of Human Activity or Not?

Stratosphere Temperatures
http://weather.about.com/od/climatechange/i/coolingearth.htm


Part of the problem with the global warming debate also seems to be semantics. You say toe-may-toe, I say toe-mahhh-toe. The gray area here is - Do humans increase global warming or not?
One part scientists agree on is that the earth is warming. Data sets show the increases in temperatures over years. Temperatures will always fluctuate, but the general trend in data is a warming. Carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere have also increased. Scientists agree that data from multiple sources indicates that CO2 levels have risen steadily since the start of the Industrial Revolution. Humans, especially Americans, use more fossil fuels than any other country in the world. Fossil fuels contain carbon and are therefore one of the main culprits in carbon emission into the atmosphere. But carbon isn't the only greenhouse gas...Just the most famous.

These are the Facts in the Case for Global Warming:

  1. Since the latter part of the 19th century, the temperatures of earth have risen 1 degree Celsius.
  2. Carbon Dioxide levels in the atmosphere have risen significantly in the last 150 years.
  3. The polar ice caps are melting.
  4. Hurricanes and other severe whether events may be increasing in frequency due to documented ocean water temperature increases.
  5. 1998 was the warmest year on record.
  6. Sea levels are rising.
  7. Ecosystems and animal species are disappearing.
These facts make a clear-cut picture for many that a call to action is necessary.

Resolution

What Can You Do About Global Warming Right Now? Even if there is a debate, it is often better to err on the side of caution. Whether humans directly affect global temperatures remains to be seen, but you can still do your part. Here is what you can do to slow the release of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
  • Car pool-Who wouldn't want to save on gas money?
  • Recycle materials such as glass and aluminum-It saves more fossil fuels than creating a new bottle or can.
  • Buy Energy Star Appliances-Many save you money and help the environment.
  • Insulate your house better-You will save on the use of home heating fuels.
  • Get involved in community projects for awareness-Many communities have funds and drives to increase environmental awareness.
  • Buy a thermometer for your refrigerators and freezers-Keeping foods below necessary temperatures is overkill and wastes energy.
  • Turn off lights-Buy energy efficient lightning and turn off lights when you leave a room.
  • Walk more! You may enjoy that walk to the store and in the process, leave your gas-guzzling car at home!

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