What Is Global Warming? – Definition, Causes & Effects

The issue of global warming is a serious crisis knocking at our doors. The erratic climate changes, severe heat waves, and the extinction of animals - all are outcomes of global warming. 

As Earth's surface temperature keeps increasing due to several natural and artificial reasons, the existence of living beings on the Earth is at stake. 

This blog provides a detailed analysis of global warming causes and effects, to help you gain valuable insights into the global warming issues and take informed actions to protect the environment.

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What is Global Warming?

Global warming is when the overall temperature of the Earth's surface increases gradually. Besides the natural processes contributing to this rise in temperature, the most significant reason is human activities that cause a rapid increase in greenhouse gas emissions. 

These greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere trap the heat radiating from the Earth's surface, causing an increase in overall temperature.  Global warming has become a serious concern for living beings on Earth by bringing unexpected climate change and disturbing ecological balances.

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Global Warming Causes

The problem of global warming is raising serious concerns among scientists and environmentalists. Many studies have been conducted to find the root causes of this phenomenon. Some natural phenomena have always affected the Earth's temperature and climate. 

But, in recent times, human activities have created a great impact, causing global warming to happen at a higher pace. Let's discuss in detail the causes of global warming:

Deforestation

Plants play a significant role in maintaining an environmental balance by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Rapid deforestation to accommodate industries and urban infrastructures causes an imbalance, thereby giving rise to global warming.  

Plants are a great carbon source; so, when they are destroyed or burnt, carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, which causes climate change and a temperature rise.

Agriculture

Various agricultural activities produce carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane gas. These gases add to the greenhouse gases, increasing the pollution levels and eventually leading to global warming.

Burning Fossil Fuels

Extensive industrial and urban development leads to global warming. Burning fossil fuels to generate electricity and emitting harmful gases from vehicles build up a huge amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and contribute to the rise in temperature.

Chlorofluorocarbon

Chlorofluorocarbon (CFCs), an essential component of air conditioners and refrigerators, is a major factor for depletion of the ozone layer surrounding the Earth. Due to the impact of CFCs, the thin ozone layer is making way for the ultraviolet rays, thereby increasing the temperature of the Earth.

Overpopulation and Consumption

The increase in population and more consumption means demand for more energy and higher waste generation. All these activities contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming.

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Global Warming Effects

There are multifaceted effects of global warming. The human population is experiencing the impact of global warming through extreme climatic behaviours, damage to natural resources, and many other effects. Let's explore in detail the major effects of global warming:

Increase in Sea Level

Global warming has led to an incredible increase in Earth's temperature. According to NASA, the average global temperature has increased by 1.1 degrees Celsius since 1880. 

This has resulted in melting glaciers, leading to a rise in the sea level. The effects could be devastating, particularly in coastal regions.

Threats to the Ecosystem

Global warming has affected the natural habitat of many species of flora and fauna. Increased global temperatures have forced animals to migrate to colder regions for survival, and those that can't adapt to the changing environment are gradually becoming extinct.

Extreme Weather Events

The effect of global warming is being observed through increased droughts, intense storms, wildfires, and an overall unpredictability in weather events. The rise in temperature causes more water vapour generation, increasing rainfall, and causing flood damage.

Impact on Agriculture

Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns adversely impact crop yields and livestock production. Crops can't be grown as required, which may lead to food insecurity and economic instability. The unusual temperature may cause different pests to grow, leading to crop damage.

Spread of Diseases

Global warming worldwide results in a change in heat and humidity that causes illnesses, bacterial infection, vector-borne diseases, and respiratory problems due to increased pollution levels. It eventually leads to higher mortality rates.

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Global Warming and Climate Change

Global warming has brought another challenge to living beings on Earth: climate change. People often use the terms global warming and climate change interchangeably, as they are closely related. 

However, as per the definition of global warming, it is the rise in the Earth's surface temperature for various reasons. Climate change refers to changes in overall weather and seasonal patterns in different parts of the world. 

Global warming is one of the major reasons for climate change, affecting the animal, plant, and human populations to a great extent.

Global Warming Issues

Global warming issues are not limited to specific regions; they start impacting the overall global landscape, causing a serious threat to human civilization. 

Here are some global warming issues that need to be resolved through global intervention.

Economic Damage

Global warming and climate change, with natural disasters, are affecting agriculture, industry, infrastructure, and many other sectors. Developing nations struggle to mitigate the challenges due to losing money, resources, and habitats.

Climate Refugees

Increased sea level, natural disasters, and destruction of habitats, displace many people. Many of the population are forced to relocate in search of favourable environment for survival. It gives rise to a large number of climate refugees.

Water Scarcity

The rise in temperatures causes water bodies to dry up. Glaciers are melting, therefore not feeding water to the major rivers. It indicates a major water shortage on Earth shortly.  

Global Conflict

Different countries' contributing differently to global warming. It might lead to conflicts, as nations struggle to protect their interests. Countries causing less impact on global warming also suffer from the ill effects and challenges affecting the globe.

How to Address Global Warming Issues?

The global warming crisis is affecting everyone, so businesses, industries, and individuals must work together to minimize the effects of global warming.  Here are some action steps:

Switch to Renewable Energy

Solar, wind, and hydropower can replace the conventional method of using fossil fuels for energy production, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Protect and Restore Forests

Afforestation and conservation can help restore the balance by reducing the amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere.

Green Transportation

Use of electric vehicles and fuel-efficient transport systems can reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

The best practices and responsible consumption help optimize energy use with reduced waste, lowering emissions.

Climate Education and Awareness

Awareness and education about global warming can bring significant positive changes by inspiring the community, especially the youth.

Global warming is one of the greatest challenges modern human civilization faces. It has long-term impacts on biodiversity, climate, and health. Knowing the causes of global warming and its adverse effects helps us recognize the severity of the problem affecting the world today.

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