Global warming, which is the long-term rise in the average temperature of the Earth’s surface caused by the increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, has been a major concern of the society for many years. It is therefore important to know the latest statistics and data regarding this issue as the world gets warmer.
The Warming Trend
The IPCC has reported that the average surface temperature of the Earth has increased by about 1. Global average temperature has only risen by 1°C (2°F) in the last 130 years. This trend is clear, the last decade was the warmest on record. The year 2024 is expected to be the warmest or the second warmest year on record with a mid of the range estimate just above 1. 5°C (2. 7°F) above pre-industrial level.
Causes of Global Warming
The main factor that has been identified to cause global warming is the enhancement of green house gases emissions especially CO2 through burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and agriculture. According to the IEA, in 2022 energy-related CO2 emissions hit a new record of 14. 7 billion metric tons. Human activities have been the major contributor to the warming that has been seen since the mid twentieth century.
Consequences of Global Warming
Global warming has numerous effects on the environment such as increased sea level, increased occurrence and intensity of natural disasters, changes in the amount of rainfall, and changes in ecosystems. According to the projections, climate change may lead to an additional 14 by the year 2050. 5 million deaths and $12. It has been estimated that natural disasters have resulted in a loss of $5 trillion in the global economy. Warmer oceans may lead to more powerful and frequent hurricanes while some areas may face severe droughts and wildfires.
Efforts to Mitigate Global Warming
Some of the measures that are being taken in order to address the issue of global warming include the reduction of emissions of green house gases as well as the adoption of renewable energy sources. Renewable energy investments have been on the rise since the start of the century and have been estimated to have been $500 billion in 2022. Carbon pricing measures including carbon taxes and cap and trade systems are being used in more and more countries to foster emission reductions.
The Paris Agreement
The Paris Agreement was signed in 2015 and it is a legally binding agreement that sets out a global plan to prevent global warming and keep the global temperature rise this century to below 2 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial levels with a target of 1.5 degrees Celsius. 5°C (2. 7°F). Nonetheless, according to the present policies and measures, the global temperature is predicted to rise to an average of 2. The global temperature is expected to rise to 7°C (4. 9°F) above the pre-industrial levels by the year 2100 which is way beyond the Paris Agreement targets.
The Role of Individual Action
Although international cooperation and the changes in policies are important to fight global warming, it is also important for individuals to take action. Using less energy, choosing environmentally friendly means of transport and making environmentally friendly decisions in our day to day lives can help in the fight against climate change.
Conclusion
Global warming is one of the most significant and challenging problems of the world which needs immediate solution. Thus, knowing the current facts and figures of this issue, we are able to take action and take measures to minimize the emission of greenhouse gases and adapt to climate change to preserve the earth for future generations.
