Climate change is a long term change in global climate patterns, which has been attributed largely to the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide produced by the use of fossil fuels from the mid 20th century. Carbon dioxide (and other gases such as methane, nitrogen oxide and CFCs) is given off during the burning of fossil fuels used for electricity and energy production. The gases given off contribute to the layer of greenhouse gases that insulates the globe, and keeps in heat from the rays of the Sun. However, the theory states that as we are burning more and more fossil fuels, this layer is increasing in size and therefore more heat is being trapped in our atmosphere.
Global warming is a direct result of climate change. Sea levels have risen by 19 centimetres since 1900, as ice sheets melt and the ocean expands due to rising temperatures, with global average ocean temperatures the highest they have been since 1850 (this is known as thermal expansion). However, the most striking of all of the evidence that has been gathered by the Met Office regards average surface air temperature. This is reported to have increased by 1 degree Celsius over the last 100 years. Although this may seem minute and irrelevant, on the contrary, this 1 degree shift in global temperatures can cause worldwide problems.
Extreme weather is predicted to increase across the UK, with water shortages in the south and south east, major flooding and heat waves. Heat waves may seem like a lovely time to go to the beach with family in 30 degree weather not usually seen in these parts of the world, however, in Europe and Africa, heat waves can cause temperatures of up to 47 degrees (as seen in summer 2018), increasing the spread of disease and loss of life. Not only will the human race be affected directly by the high temperatures, but agriculture is expected to be severely affected in areas such as South Asia and North and South America. The list could go on and on with the deadly effects of climate change, and global warming could really change the world as we know it. If this is the case though, what are we doing to stop this from happening?
There is a plethora of evidence in support of the climate change theory, and with nearly all people in the UK believing that climate change is real & is problem affecting the whole world, global warming seems to be a serious issue. However, more than 3 in 5 people feel that the Government is not doing enough in preparing and adapting to the impact of climate change. Nevertheless, it isn’t just the responsibility of the Government - doing anything to help in the battle against global warming with a number of small things that you can do at home to reduce your carbon emissions and make our world a greener place.
Alternative energy in the form of solar energy, wind energy and other such renewable energy sources can be a great way of reducing your carbon emissions. Installing some solar panels on your roof for hot water or switching your provider to a more renewable company can be things you can do to drastically reduce your contribution of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. However, smaller things like recycling, using reusable bags, straws, water bottles are all ways of changing your life to help better the world. So until we all start making our lives greener, global warming will be a serious problem just waiting outside your door.
