In 2023, the Earth had its warmest year since 1850, resulting in extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, droughts, and wildfires.
These events are linked to climate change, which is a real and scientifically proven phenomenon, although there is still some uncertainty about it.
Water vapur, carbon dioxide, methane, ozone, and nitrous oxide are examples of greenhouse gases (GHGs) that naturally occur in our atmosphere and contribute to the greenhouse effect, which acts as a blanket to keep our planet warm. This impact is critical to life as we know it, allowing liquid water and supporting living beings.
However, the problem stems from the increased concentration of GHGs caused by human activity. GHG levels have remained largely steady over the last thousand years, but there has been a major increase during the Industrial Revolution, particularly in carbon dioxide. Burning fossil fuels and deforestation are the chief causes of this growth.
Scientists use carbon isotopes to determine the source of carbon dioxide. A higher concentration of carbon-12, a fossil fuel signature, suggests human activity, such as the combustion of fossil fuels.
Furthermore, humans have introduced synthetic greenhouse gases such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which contribute to global warming. CFCs, which were historically used in air conditioners, destroy the ozone layer and are potent greenhouse gases, whereas HFCs, their substitutes, are significant contributors to climate change.
The consequences of these human-caused changes are visible in the extraordinary rise in GHG levels in 2023, which will lead to the warmest year on record. The effects of GHGs are long-term, with carbon dioxide persisting in the atmosphere for centuries, producing irreversible warming and increasing sea levels. Understanding and reducing human-caused greenhouse gas emissions are critical steps toward mitigating the effects of climate change and protecting our world for future generations.
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Technology is a useful servant, but a dangerous master, it was rightly said. Electronic devices have grown into an inevitable part of our daily lives.
