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Global Warming/Climate Change
Global Warming: Is it happening?
• Average temperatures have climbed 1.4 ° F around the world since 1880.
• The rate of warming is increasing—the end of the 20th century was the hottest period in the past 400 years and possibly in several millennia.
• Average temperatures in Alaska, western Canada, and eastern Russia have risen twice the global average.
Arctic Ice is rapidly disappearing
• The region may have its first ice free summer by 2040 or earlier.
Montana’s Glacier National Park
• Only 27 glaciers, versus 150 in 1910.
2,500 scientists in 130 countries, concluded that humans have caused all or most of the current planetary warming.
FYI (not on test)
• The U.S. was the largest emitter of carbon dioxide emissions until 2006.
• Today, China is the largest emitter.• China is following the Kyoto Protocol
guidelines in order to reduce emissions.
Anthropogenic climate change
• Industrialization, deforestation, and pollution have increased atmospheric concentrations of all greenhouse gases that help trap heat near Earth’s surface.
• Humans pour carbon dioxide into the atmosphere much faster than plants can absorb it.
• Natural changes usually occur over many centuries but the recent changes have taken place in less than 100 years.
What will happen?
• Large scale food and water shortages (desertification)
• Catastrophic effects on wildlife• Sea-levels could rise 7 to 23 inches by the end
of the century’s end. (La and Fl are especially at risk)• Strong hurricanes, droughts, heat waves, wild fires, etc.
• Extinction of many species from disappearing habitat, changing ecosystems, & ocean acidification.
• Oceans circulation system could be altered causing a mini-ice age.
What can you do?
• 1.) Use ENERGY STAR light bulbs • 2.) Use ENERGY STAR appliances• 3.) Seal and insulate your home• 4.) Change air-conditioner/heater filter often• 5.) Reduce, Reuse, Recycle• 6.) Conserve water• 7.) Spread the word
• 8.) Buy smart• 9.) Drive smart (roof rack—5%, hard
acceleration, idling, use cruise control)• 10.) Tune your vehicle• 11.) Check your tires• 12.) Give your car a break• 13.) Renewable fuels
Video Clip:
• http://player.discoveryeducation.com/index.cfm?guidAssetId=41CA991D-D5E9-4DC7-B3E1-1870CE84648B&blnFromSearch=1&productcode=US