Scientists have concluded that all the changes in climate that occurred prior to modern times were localized and did not affect the entire planet. For example, the effects of the Little Ice Age were limited mainly to the Pacific Ocean and Europe, while the Medieval Climate Optimum – an era of a relatively warm climate – affected only the Northern Hemisphere. However, the current period of global warming affects nearly 98% of the Earth’s surface.
The significant rise in global temperature can be attributed to human influence, otherwise known as the anthropogenic factor. In the past, the problem of hydrocarbon burning and deforestation was not as intense, and the energy balance was quite different on the planet.
Consequences of the Anthropogenic Factor
The consequences of mankind’s negligent attitude towards its home planet can be very dire. One such consequence includes the likely submergence of continental landmass into the oceans’ waters. Moreover, vast areas are also likely to become uninhabitable. Many species of wild animals and plants will disappear from existence. Huge populations of people will be forced to relocate to places that have better living conditions. All these changes can lead to conflicts, as well as a rise in food scarcity and drinking water shortages. Rapid climate change entails an increase in natural disasters – an effect that is already starting to happen.
What You Can Do
In any case, everyone can affect the amounts of greenhouse gases that are displaced into the atmosphere. When a great number of people work towards a common cause, we can create tremendous change. The lion’s share of the problem lies in the energy sector: light, heat, transportation, and manufacturing all require energy and the burning of fossil fuels, which contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
In one way or another, all paths must lead to sustainable consumption. You can help with simple actions that don’t require drastic life changes! The UN has outlined ten basic steps that will help contribute to the fight against global warming.
The Boomerang Effect
Naturally, we are only responsible for our own actions. Although we cannot avoid what the future holds, we only know for certain what it entails when it becomes the present. However, we can become aware of the problem and take a conservative approach to our needs today. If we pay more attention to the world and the people in it, the world will respond in kind!
We all care about the quality of our lives, our own feelings, and emotions – and that’s the way it should be. If we have the strength, responsibility, and love to do our best for the future of our planet today – we will feel inspired and rejoice.
Inspiration and joy are what life’s all about.