Earth Day 2023 was on April 22. The earth faces tough challenges, especially global warming and climate change.
1.Definitions
Global warming: increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to the release of greenhouse gases.
Climate change: long-term changes in the climate system, including changes in weather patterns as a result of global warning
2. History
1824: Joseph Fourier describes the greenhouse effect, the process by which gases like methane and carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere trap and absorb heat, leading to warming of the planet's surface.
1896: Svante Arrhenius calculates the effects of CO2 on global temperatures
1938: Guy Stewart Callendar links CO2 emissions to rising temperatures
1958: Charles David Keeling begins measuring CO2 concentrations
1979: World Climate Conference acknowledges human influence on climate
3. The Present State of Climate Change
A. Impact of human activities on climate change
Fossil fuel combustion: major source of greenhouse gas emissions
Deforestation: loss of carbon sinks and biodiversity
Agriculture and livestock: methane emissions and land-use changes
B. Observed consequences
Global temperature increase: average of 1.2°C since preindustrial times
Extreme weather events: heatwaves, droughts, storms, and floods
Melting ice caps and glaciers: sea level rise and disruption to ecosystems
C. Current international efforts
2015: Paris Agreement – global commitment to limit temperature rise
2021: COP26 – renewed focus on climate finance and net-zero targets
Ongoing initiatives: renewable energy, reforestation, carbon capture
4. The Path Forward
Decarbonizing energy production: solar, wind, nuclear, and hydro
Electrifying transportation: electric vehicles and public transit
Enhancing energy efficiency: green buildings and smart grids
5. Conclusion:
The history of climate change research informs current understanding
Urgent need for collective global action to mitigate impacts
Continued innovation and collaboration necessary for a sustainable future