El current global warming It is one of the greatest threats facing humanity for thousands of years. This problem has been exacerbated by our everyday actions, such as the use of motor vehicles, deforestation, and air and water pollution. As the planet warms, the consequences of global warming become increasingly evident and alarming.
Next, I propose to you 4 curiosities about global warming that will help you better understand the seriousness of the situation.
1. Thawing
Melting ice is one of the most dangerous effects of global warming. Not only because melting water raises sea levels, but also because complicates the lives of animals that inhabit these ecosystems, such as polar bears and seals. As glaciers and ice sheets disappear, not only are habitats lost; dead bodies also emerge that can release pathogens and infectious diseases that were thought to be extinct They could reappear, posing a threat to both wildlife and humans.
2. Flood
The cities most vulnerable to flooding are often those with a high population density and located close to sea level. Thirteen of the world's fifteen largest cities are located within a few meters (or even centimeters) of the sea. Cities like Alexandria, California, and New York face a extremely high risk of significant floodingRecent NOAA studies predict that sea level rise could reach up to two meters, with devastating consequences for the infrastructure and safety of millions of people. New York, in particular, could suffer the worst flooding in its history if it doesn't take action to curb global warming, as explained in this article. article on the subject.
3. Disappearance of lakes
Until now, 125 Arctic lakes have disappeared due to global warming. The thawing of permafrost, which is the permanently frozen layer of soil, has allowed these lakes to be absorbed by the ground. This not only affects the flora and fauna that depend on these aquatic ecosystems, but also threatens the species that live there, bringing them to the brink of extinction. If you want to delve deeper into the causes of global warming, I recommend this article. link detailing the main causes.
4. Brown water
As global temperatures continue to rise, Lakes begin to experience an increase in organic matter, such as algaeThis excessive algal growth can lead to eutrophication, a process in which water becomes enriched with nutrients, leading to a decrease in oxygen and affecting aquatic species that depend on deeper plants for survival. In the long term, animals that feed on these plants will have to adapt or risk extinction.
In addition to the aforementioned curiosities, it is important to understand the global context of warming. Since pre-industrial times, the average global temperature has increased by approximately 1,1°CAccording to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the 2015-2019 period was likely the warmest on record.
The rate of sea level rise has climbed to 5 mm per year between 2014 and 2019, which is alarming considering that, in the worst-case scenarios, it is estimated that global temperatures could rise by up to 4,8°C by the end of this centuryGreenhouse gas emissions, which are responsible for global warming, come largely from the burning of fossil fuels. You can find more information about emissions and their impact on this topic. informative link.
The causes of global warming
Global warming is a phenomenon that has been accelerated by human activities. The main causes contributing to this phenomenon are:
- Carbon dioxide emissions: Main emissions come from the combustion of fossil fuels.
- Deforestation: Deforestation reduces the Earth's ability to absorb carbon.
- Energy use: Much of energy generation still relies on non-renewable sources.
- Industry: Industrial processes emit large amounts of greenhouse gases.
Consequences of global warming
The consequences of global warming affect not only the environment but also people's daily lives. Some of the most worrying consequences include:
- Species extinction: It is estimated that climate change could lead to the extinction of up to one in six species in the planet.
- Extreme weather events: Increased frequency and intensity of hurricanes, droughts and floods, as well as their impact on freshwater, which you can explore further in this article. article on droughts.
- Lack of water: The availability of freshwater is compromised due to rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns.
- Impacts on human health: The rise in heat-related illnesses and the death of species vital to the food chain are just a few examples.
Mitigation del calentamiento global
Mitigating global warming involves several strategies. Among the most effective are:
- Use of renewable energy: It is essential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote clean energy.
- Reforestation: Restoring deforested areas helps increase carbon sequestration.
- Increase energy efficiency: Improving the efficiency of buildings and vehicles can significantly reduce emissions.
Shared responsibility
It is crucial that both governments and individuals act on global warming. Each of us can contribute to the solution through everyday decisions, such as:
- Reduce the use of vehicles: Opt for public transport, walking or cycling.
- Save energy: Turn off appliances and use low-energy light bulbs.
- Support environmental policies: Demand action from governments and companies to curb climate change.
The fight against global warming requires a joint and committed effort. By caring for the planet, we are not only protecting our environment but also ensuring a sustainable future for future generations.
Who wrote this? He's not a meteorologist, is he? Not a climatologist, right? He will not have studied physics in his life nor will he have gone through any Faculty of Environmental Sciences. It does not surprise me that whoever does not have to know anything about this has the opinion that he does. Researchers must tell reality as it is, without adorning it with things that have not yet been proven, nor, in my opinion, can never be demonstrated. Many make up horror stories, of course, that maintains interest and thus safeguard their grants, like many NGOs, which took 150 million last year for absurd studies. But in Meteorologiaenlared? They should not go where they do not know, or at least say who signed the article, what their sources are or discover that it is a personal opinion, so we can delete it from our favorites.
Hi Juanjo.
You're right: the sources were missing. I just put them on.
I'm sorry it was not of interest to you.
A greeting.