What is Global Warming

What is Global Warming?

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, global warming refers to climate change that causes an increase in the average temperature of the lower atmosphere of the Earth. As temperatures increase, the quantities of greenhouse gases also increase. Greenhouse gases that occur naturally are good for the Earth, as they keep the heat from escaping into space. This keeps our planet warm enough for humans to live.

However, as greenhouse gases increase beyond a normal level, more heat is kept from escaping and this causes the earth's temperature to increase. This can be seen more clearly by examining the Carbon Cycle Diagram.

Greenhouse Gases

Greenhouse gases occur in nature as a normal event. Methane, Carbon Dioxide, water vapor and fluorinated gases are helpful to the Earth in natural amounts. The problem begins to occur when these gases are manufactured as a result of industrialized nations.

Manufacturing, vehicle emissions, the burning of fossil fuels and various other activities contribute to the increased amount of greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere.

According to NASA, as these gases increase, more heat is trapped and the Earth's temperature increases. When this occurs, sea levels rise and weather patterns change. This influences the temperature of surface water in the world's oceans, and precipitation levels are altered, too.

Ways to Decrease the Effects of Global Warming

First and foremost, just be aware of the activities you participate in that increase greenhouse gases, which in turn increases the effects of global warming. By taking the time to identify these activities and reduce them, you can make a difference.

There are several things you can do to help the environment. You can make efforts at home, at school, at the office and on the road.

Here are just a few ideas:

• Select and use Energy Star products and appliances. This can be an effort at home, at work or at school. Choose appliances that bear the Energy Star label. These are engineered to be more efficient and produce less waste. In addition to appliances, there are other products such as light bulbs, home electronics and various other items that are Energy Star qualified products.

• Heat and Cool your home or office intelligently. Select the most efficient heating and cooling systems available. Consult an expert to make sure your system is the appropriate size and kind for your location. Ensure your home or office is properly insulated and that all drafts from windows are sealed. If you're not sure how to identify problem areas within your home, contract a home energy auditor to evaluate your location and let you know of any problem areas.

• Recycle and reduce the amount of waste your family produces. Trash and waste in landfills create methane gas, which adds to the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. If you concentrate on ways to reduce the amount of waste your family produces, you also help decrease the amount of waste that goes to the landfill. Over a lifetime, this can add up to a considerable amount. There are many ways to recycle and reduce your waste. For instance, instead of just throwing away newspapers, plastic containers (such as soda or water bottles) or other goods, sort them out and take them to the local recycling center. Purchase products made from recycled materials.

• Tell others. You alone won't be able to save the world. However, by participating in recycling groups or clubs, you can help to get the word out others. In order to reduce the effects of global warming in the future, it's going to take a group effort. Not everyone knows about global warming. You can help future generations by helping to answer the question of 'what is global warming?' when those who don't know ask you. Share the information you have, help others realize ways to help the environment and be smart about your own actions.