What is Global Warming?

Global warming is quite simply the increase in the average temperature of the Earth's air, and oceans in recent decades, and also refers to its projected continuation.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change(IPCC) concludes "most of the observed increase in globally averaged temperatures since the mid-20th century is very likely due to the observed increase in anthropogenic (man-made) greenhouse gas concentrations via the greenhouse effect."

There are some who disagree with the findings of the IPCC, but an overwhelming majority of scientists worldwide agree that greenhouse gas emissions are a serious problem.

Most national governments have signed and ratified the Kyoto agreement, which is a step in the right direction, but there remains a lot of debate and disagreement in terms of implementing Kyoto. In the meantime, we can all make our own contribution to reducing our environmental footprint.

The Effects of Global Warming

An increasing global temperature is projected to have numerous effects on the earth. A warmer world will cause sea levels to rise; will increase the intensity of extreme weather storms; and will change the amount and pattern of precipitation.

Other effects of global warming include changes in agricultural yields, the melting of glaciers, many more species may become extinct, and diseases may develop new patterns of spreading.

There is little agreement on when, and how soon we may see these effects come impact our lives, but there is little disagreement that we all need to take action.