Global warming is a phenomenon that refers to the increase in the average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere and oceans, primarily caused by the increase in greenhouse gases. These gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat from the sun in the Earth's atmosphere, causing the temperature to rise.
The main cause of global warming is the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, which releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Other human activities, such as deforestation and agriculture, also contribute to the increase in greenhouse gases.
The consequences of global warming are far-reaching and severe. The rising temperatures are causing the polar ice caps to melt, leading to rising sea levels and an increase in extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves. These events can have devastating impacts on human communities, as well as on wildlife and the environment.
There is a consensus among scientists that global warming is happening and that it is largely caused by human activity. However, there are still some who deny the existence of global warming or downplay its severity.
Annotated Bibliography:
- "Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report." United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, 2014.
This report is published by the United Nations and presents a synthesis of the latest scientific knowledge on climate change. It provides an overview of the causes and impacts of global warming and discusses the actions that can be taken to mitigate its effects.
- "Global Warming of 1.5°C." Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2018.
This report, published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), focuses on the impacts of global warming of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. It provides a detailed assessment of the risks and challenges posed by global warming and discusses the measures that can be taken to limit its effects.
- "The Physical Science Basis." Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2013.
This report, also published by the IPCC, provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific basis of climate change. It discusses the evidence for the existence of global warming and the factors that contribute to it, as well as the impacts and risks associated with it.
- "Global Warming and the Future of the Earth." David G. Andrews, 2018.
In this book, David Andrews presents a comprehensive overview of the science behind global warming and its impacts on the Earth. He discusses the evidence for the existence of global warming and the factors that contribute to it, as well as the risks and challenges posed by a changing climate.