Global warming is a matter of great concern that is often overlooked in light of other problems that appear to be more crucial. There is a lot of ambiguity surrounding the theory of global warming with two extremist groups; the deniers who deny the existence of climate change and the alarmists who strongly believe Earth is going in a downward spiral (Carter 2008). Many of us do not know the vast ramifications of global warming and its direct correlations to climate change. Thus, it is essential for us, the citizens of our planet to scrutinize and ascertain the potential effects global warming can bring unto Mother Earth and how they can be corrected.
One discernible effect of global warming could be significant rise in sea levels. Temperature rises cause the ocean water to expand which takes up more volume (Woodford 2006). It has also been argued that in the future, higher frequency of heat waves may occur, possibly causing in sea level rises and the immersion of low-lying nations (Riebeek 2007). Arctic and Antarctic glaciers are melting rapidly, draining water into the oceans and raising concerns about future large scale sea-level rises (Woodford 2006). Retreating glaciers in areas like the Kilimanjoro may cease to exist within a decade. Due to this, 40 percent of the world’s population is predicted to face severe water shortages within five decades (An Inconvenient Truth A Global Warning 2007).
In addition, it is likely that global warming will exacerbate erratic weather patterns on Mother Earth (Woodford 2006). Disturbed weather patterns beyond scientists’ ability to prognosticate may occur and translates to increased frequency of storms and hurricanes, severe floods and droughts, freak tidal waves and irregular seasonal periods. According to the film An Inconvenient Truth A Global Warning (2007), a replicated account of such erratic weather behaviour would be Hurricane Katrina in 2006, which devastated the entire New Orleans and was recorded as the costliest and one of the deadliest hurricanes in the history of the United States.
Besides that, global warming may also upset the delicate balance of the ecosystem. As global warming aggrandizes, significant climate change occurs and this suppresses animals’ well-being. The animals may not be able to adapt quickly to this extreme weather change and thus, some may face extinction (Woodford 2006). Plant species are also at risk of extinction as the climate changes raises the surrounding temperatures. This deprives the plants of water needed to survive and increases the chances of wildfire (Riebeek 2007).
It is utmost essential to solve global warming and the best method is to trim down on our carbon footprint. It is recommended that we use energy saving fluorescent lamps, utilise renewable energy, and practise fuel economical approaches when behind the wheel (Woodford 2006). It should also be stressed that governmental authorities play their part in acting against global warming. Nations should act with the bigger picture in mind; the environment. The United States has yet to sign the Kyoto Protocol, shielding themselves with China and India’s refusal to sign the climate change treaty. Their justification is that signing a climate change treaty will put themselves at an economic disadvantage due to decreased economic growth (Woodford 2006). Nations should change their mindset before it is too late.
Mother Earth is crying out loud that she is sick, and the symptoms are obvious; climate change. We cannot deny that it is essential for us, the citizens of our planet to wake up and realize the pitfalls of global warming before it is too late and strive to apprehend global warming. Future generations may well have occasion to ask themselves, "What were our parents thinking? Why didn't they wake up when they had a chance?"We have to hear that question from them, now (An Inconvenient Truth A Global Warning 2007).
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