Global Warming

What is global warming?  Global warming is the gradual increase of the Earth’s average temperature.  It has been an issue for over 500 years.

What causes it?  Man made and natural causes that increase greenhouse gases –Exhaust gases from cars –Exhaust gases from factories –Methane gas from animals –Methane gas released when a tundra melts

Which Greenhouse Gases?  Carbon dioxide is the largest contributor. It comes from burning fossil fuels and exhaust from cars.  Methane from cows, rice growing and mining.  CFCs from air conditioning units, refrigeration applications and aerosol propellants.

How does it effect us?  Increase in Earth’s surface temperature - Hotter summers and warmer winters  Rise in the Earth’s sea level - More floods and impact to fresh water supply  Crop production - May increase in the U.S. - May decrease in other less developed countries  The spread of disease - Warmer wetter weather could increase the spread of infectious diseases carried by insects

What can we do about it?  Find cleaner more efficient forms of energy  Conserve energy –carpooling, recycling, drive more fuel efficient cars  Plant trees

What else can we do about it?  Drive 100 fewer miles per week and fly 3000 fewer miles per year.  Turn the thermostat down by 2 degrees in the winter.  Replace 10 incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescents.

Summary Unless people take action to solve global warming it may seriously impact life on Earth.