Global warming refers to the long-term increase in the Earth’s average surface temperature due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, in the atmosphere. This phenomenon is thought to be driven by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation, and industrial processes, which release these gases into the air.
As these greenhouse gases accumulate, they create a “blanket” effect in the atmosphere, trapping heat that would otherwise escape into space. This leads to a gradual rise in the Earth’s temperature, causing various environmental and climatic changes.
These changes include but are not limited to more frequent and severe heatwaves, altered precipitation patterns, rising sea levels due to the melting of polar ice and glaciers, disruptions in ecosystems, shifts in wildlife habitats, and increased frequency of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and floods.
Global warming is a critical aspect of climate change and has far-reaching implications for the planet’s ecosystems, biodiversity, human societies, and economies. Addressing global warming requires international cooperation and concerted efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, promote sustainable land use practices, and implement measures to adapt to the changing climate conditions.
