Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature,
primarily caused by the buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. 1 These gases,
such as carbon dioxide (2CO2 ), methane (3CH4 ), and nitrous oxide (4N2 O), trap heat from
the sun, leading to a phenomenon known as the greenhouse effect.5 This effect is a
natural process that keeps the planet warm enough to support life, but human activities
have amplified it to a dangerous level.6
Causes of Global Warming 🏭
The overwhelming scientific consensus is that global warming is a direct result of human
activities.7 Since the Industrial Revolution, the concentration of greenhouse gases in the
atmosphere has risen at an unprecedented rate, about 100 times faster than natural
increases.8 The main culprits are:
• Burning of Fossil Fuels: This is the largest source of emissions. 9 The combustion of
coal, oil, and natural gas for electricity, transportation, and industrial processes
releases massive amounts of 10CO2 and other pollutants into the atmosphere.11
• Deforestation: Forests act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing 12CO2 .13 When they
are cut down, this stored carbon is released, and the planet's ability to absorb
future emissions is diminished.14
• Agriculture: Certain agricultural practices, like livestock farming (which produces
methane) and the use of nitrogen-based fertilizers (which release nitrous oxide),
contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. 15
Effects of Global Warming 🌡️
The consequences of a warming planet are already being felt and are projected to
intensify.16 They are wide-ranging and affect both the environment and human society. 17
• Rising Temperatures: The Earth's average surface temperature has increased by
about 1.5°C since the pre-industrial era (1850-1900).18 2024 was the warmest year
on record.19 This leads to more frequent and intense heat waves, posing serious
health risks.20
• Melting Ice and Rising Sea Levels: Global warming is causing glaciers, ice sheets,
and polar ice to melt at an accelerated rate. 21 This adds water to the oceans,
causing sea levels to rise and threatening coastal communities. 22
• Extreme Weather Events: A warmer climate creates more energetic weather
systems, leading to more frequent and severe storms, hurricanes, droughts, and
floods. These events cause widespread destruction and economic losses.
• Ecosystem Disruption: As temperatures rise and habitats change, many plant and
animal species are at risk.23 Some are forced to migrate, while others face
extinction.24 This disrupts the balance of ecosystems and can lead to biodiversity
loss.25
• Food and Water Scarcity: Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns are
affecting agriculture, leading to reduced crop yields and increased water stress in
many regions.26
Global Efforts and Solutions 🤝
Addressing global warming requires a coordinated global effort. Solutions generally fall
into two categories: mitigation (reducing emissions) and adaptation (preparing for the
impacts that are already inevitable).27
• International Agreements: The Paris Agreement, a landmark international treaty,
aims to limit global warming to "well below" 2°C, and preferably to 1.5°C, compared
to pre-industrial levels.28 Nations submit their own plans, called Nationally
Determined Contributions (NDCs), to achieve this goal.29
• Transition to Renewable Energy: The most critical solution is a rapid shift from
fossil fuels to clean, renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal
power.30 This requires massive investment and policy support. 31
• Sustainable Practices: Individuals and governments can contribute by adopting
sustainable practices, such as improving energy efficiency, reducing consumption,
promoting public transport, and protecting and restoring forests. 32
• Carbon Capture and Storage: New technologies are being developed to capture
carbon from industrial emissions and store it underground or use it in other
processes, preventing it from entering the atmosphere.