Global Warming - Causes and Effects

Global warming refers to the increase in the temperature of Earth’s surface. Human activities such as burning of oil, coal, etc. releases greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane and other ozone into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat and light from the sun in the earth’s atmosphere, leading to an increase in temperature which is a major cause of global warming. Burning of fossil fuels is one of the major contributing factors to greenhouse gas which leads to the emission of carbon dioxide.

Population is also increasing day-by-day at a very high rate. To fulfill the needs of the increasing population, more and more trees are being cut for building more houses, shopping complexes, malls, movie halls, etc., which further increases the pollution.

Global warming is adversely affecting the climatic conditions, rainfall patterns, agricultural output, along with the major impact on the lives of humans, plants and wildlife. As a result of global warming the oceans are melting, thereby causing the sea levels to rise. Due to the adverse effects of global warming, the temperature of earth’s surface is expected to increase by about 3° to 5° C (5.4° to 9° Fahrenheit) by the year 2100, and the rise of sea levels by at least 25 meters (82 feet) by the year 2100. Global warming is supposed to increase the probability of more frequent and stronger hurricanes, spread of diseases, increased intensity of heat waves, and may lead to disastrous economic consequences.

Global warming is a really serious problem which needs to be taken care. It is not only the responsibility of the government, but of each individual, to find a solution for global warming. We can give our contribution by doing various things like planting more and more trees, reducing waste, stop wasting fuel, reducing the usage of electrical appliances, proper maintenance of vehicles, etc.

Planting more number of trees is very important for the environment. Trees not only provide us food and shelter, but also improve the quality of air that we breathe. Trees give us life by producing oxygen that we inhale and absorbs carbon dioxide. As trees absorb carbon dioxide, so if we plant more trees, then it can add to the solution of controlling global warming to some extent. In addition to providing oxygen, trees are helpful for many other purposes also. They give us shade from sun in summer, and break the force of winter winds in winter. Trees also add beauty to the environment. Trees also help in fighting soil erosion, protect and conserve rainwater, and reduce water runoff.

Thus, planting trees is very important. Do not cut trees as they play a major role in improving your quality of life. Try to plant trees in your own locality, may be in your own lawn or in a garden near you. Planting trees will also make your lawn look beautiful and will also give you fresh air. If each one of us just plants a single tree per year, then it will really make a difference to the environment. So, come and let us take the first step towards reducing global warming today.