GLOBAL
WARMING
JAIVARDHAN SINGH
AE2117
Environmental Economics
ABSTARCT
Global Warming means the rising average temperature of the Earth's atmosphere, primarily
because of the increase in greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. This phenomenon is
widely considered to be one of the most significant environmental challenges facing the
planet today. The consequences of global warming are far-reaching and include rising sea
levels, more frequent and severe weather events, melting of polar ice caps, and the decline
of many species of plants and animals. To diminish the consequences of global warming, it is
crucial for us and nations to take appropriate action to lessen their carbon footprint,
encourage the use of renewable energy, and increase energy efficiency. This paper provides
an overview of the causes and consequences of global warming, highlighting the urgent need
for action to mitigate its effects and preserve the health of our planet for future generations.”
INTRODUCTION
Global Warming term means to the long-term increase in the average temperature of the
Earth's near-surface air and oceans in recent years and its projected continuation. This
phenomenon is generate by the emission of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, into
the atmosphere, which trap heat and lead to an increase in temperature. The term "global
warming" is also sometimes used interchangeably with the term "climate change," which
refers to changes in the Earth's climate, including long-term shifts in temperature,
precipitation, wind patterns, and other measures of climate.”
The evidence for global warming is overwhelming, and it is widely accepted by the scientific
community. The average global temperature has increased“by about 1.1 degrees Celsius (2
degrees Fahrenheit) since the late 19th century”and the majority of that increase has
occurred in the last few decades. The Earth's oceans have also been warming, leading to rising
sea levels, melting of sea ice, and other impacts. The melting of glaciers and ice caps has been
observed, and permafrost in the Arctic is thawing, releasing methane and other gases into the
atmosphere.
The impacts of global warming are already being felt around the world. The Arctic is
experiencing the most rapid and dramatic changes, with sea ice melting, permafrost thawing,
and ecosystems shifting. In other regions, global warming is leading to more frequent and
intense heat waves, droughts, and heavy rainfall. These changes are affecting agriculture,
causing wildfires, and leading to more frequent and intense natural disasters, such as
hurricanes and floods.
Global warming is also affecting wildlife and ecosystems. Changes in temperature and
precipitation patterns are shifting the ranges of plants and animals, altering migration
patterns, and causing extinction. Warmer oceans are affecting the distribution and
populations of fish, plankton, and other sea life, which in turn impacts the entire ocean food
chain.
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The main contributor to global warming is the release of greenhouse gases, mainly carbon
dioxide, from human activities including deforestation and other changes in land use, as well
as the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy and transportation.
The impacts of global warming are already being felt around the world and will only continue
to worsen if we do not take action to lower emissions of greenhouse gases and move towards
a low-carbon economy. It is our responsibility to protect the planet for future generations and
ensure a sustainable future for all.
CAUSES OF GLOBAL WARMING
“The primary cause of global warming is the emission of greenhouse gases into the
atmosphere, which trap heat and cause the planet to warm. The most significant greenhouse
gas is carbon dioxide, which is released into the atmosphere through a variety of human
activities, including the burning of fossil fuels for energy and transportation, deforestation,
and other land-use changes.”
1. Burning fossil fuels: With over 78% of all emissions coming from the burning of coal,
oil, and natural gas for transportation and energy, this is the main cause of carbon
dioxide emissions. These fuels release a lot of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
when they are burned, which contributes to global warming. The increased use of
fossil fuels in recent decades has led to a significant increase in carbon dioxide
emissions, and unless we take action to reduce our reliance on these fuels, the trend
is likely to continue.
2. Deforestation and Land-Use Changes: As a result of photosynthesis, trees and other
flora take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Deforestation and other land-use
changes, such as the conversion of forests to agricultural land, remove this carbon sink
and release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In addition, deforestation and other
land-use changes can also result in the release of other greenhouse gases, such as
methane and nitrous oxide, which also contribute to global warming.
3. Agriculture: Agricultural activities, such as the use of fertilizers, can also release
significant amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
4. Industrial Processes: Industrial processes, such as the production of cement and other
building materials, can also contribute to global warming. The production of cement
releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, as well as other
greenhouse gases, such as nitrous oxide.
5. Waste Disposal: Landfills and other waste disposal sites can also contribute to global
warming. When organic waste, such as food and yard waste, decomposes in landfills,
it releases methane into the atmosphere. This methane can then contribute to global
warming if it is not properly managed or captured.
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6. Transportation: The transportation sector, which includes cars, trucks, and airplanes,
is another significant contributor to global warming. The burning of gasoline and diesel
fuel for transportation releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
In addition, the transportation sector is also a major source of other greenhouse gas
emissions, such as nitrous oxide and methane.
The warming effect of greenhouse gases is known as the greenhouse effect. Without the
greenhouse effect, the Earth would be much colder and inhospitable to life. However, the
increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are causing the greenhouse effect
to become stronger, leading to an increase in global temperature.
In conclusion,“global warming is caused by the emission of greenhouse gases into the
atmosphere, which trap heat and cause the planet to warm. The most significant greenhouse
gas is carbon dioxide, which is released into the atmosphere through a variety of human
activities, including the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and other land-use changes,
agriculture, industrial processes, waste disposal, and transportation. It is essential that we
take action to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy
in order to mitigate the impacts of global warming and protect the planet for future
generations.”
IMPACT OF GLOBAL WARMING
The impacts of global warming on the environment and biodiversity are far-reaching and
potentially catastrophic. As the planet warms, causing a variety of effects, such as increased
heat waves, droughts, and other natural disasters, as well as increasing sea levels. These
changes are having a significant impact on the environment.
Rising temperatures: Rising temperatures are causing many areas of the world to become
warmer and drier, leading to an increase in the frequency and severity of droughts, heat
waves, and wildfires. This is putting stress on ecosystems and the species that depend on
them, as well as increasing the risk of crop failures and food shortages. In addition, rising
temperatures are also causing melting of glaciers and ice caps, which is contributing to sea
level rise and increasing the risk of coastal flooding.
1. Changes in precipitation patterns: Changes in precipitation patterns are causing some
areas to become wetter and others to become drier, leading to a range of impacts on
ecosystems and the species that depend on them. For example, increased rainfall in
some areas can lead to flooding and soil erosion, while reduced rainfall in others can
lead to drought and the loss of vegetation. These changes can also impact the
availability of water for human use and agriculture.
2. Rising sea levels: Rising sea levels are causing coastal areas to become increasingly
vulnerable to flooding and erosion. As sea levels rise, they are causing saltwater to
intrude into freshwater ecosystems, making it difficult for many species to survive. In
addition, rising sea levels are also causing low-lying areas to become increasingly
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vulnerable to flooding, which is putting people, infrastructure, and communities at
risk.
3. Ocean acidification: The ocean absorbs a large amount of carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere,”leading to a decrease in pH and an increase in ocean acidity. This is
known as ocean acidification.”Ocean acidification is having a significant impact on
marine ecosystems, as it is making it more difficult for species like coral, mollusks, and
some fish to build and maintain their shells and skeletons. This, in turn, is having a
cascade effect on the entire marine food web, as these species play a crucial role in
maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
4. Impacts on biodiversity: Global warming is having a significant impact on biodiversity,
as species are unable to adapt to the changing conditions fast enough. As the planet
warms, it is causing a wide range of changes to ecosystems, including changes in the
distribution of species, changes in the timing of migration and breeding, and changes
in the abundance of species. These changes are putting many species at risk of
extinction, as they are unable to adapt quickly enough to the changing conditions. In
addition, global warming is also causing a loss of habitat, as species are forced to move
to find suitable conditions, leading to a decline in biodiversity.
5. Health impacts: The impacts of global warming on the environment and biodiversity
are also having significant impacts on human health. For example, the increased
frequency and severity of natural disasters, such as hurricanes, droughts, and heat
waves, are putting people at risk of injury, displacement, and death. In addition, global
warming is also increasing the risk of disease transmission, as it is causing changes in
the distribution and abundance of disease-carrying insects, such as mosquitoes and
ticks.
In conclusion, the impacts of global warming on the environment and biodiversity are farreaching and potentially catastrophic. The warming of the planet is causing rising
temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and
impacts on biodiversity, which are all having significant impacts on the environment and the
species that depend on it. It is necessary that we take strict action to reduce our greenhouse
gas.
ECONOMIC IMPACT OF GLOBAL WARMING
There are numerous negative economic effects of Global Warming everywhere in the world.
These impacts are affecting businesses, individuals, and governments in many other ways. In
this report, we will be discussing some of the economic impacts of global warming, including
increased costs, lost revenue, and reduced economic growth.
One of the most significant economic impacts of global warming is the increased costs
associated with extreme weather events. These events, such as hurricanes, floods, and
droughts, can cause widespread damage to infrastructure, property, and crops, leading to
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higher insurance premiums, increased repair costs, and lost income. For example, the
damage caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 cost over $100 billion, with a significant
portion of the cost borne by businesses and individuals.
Global warming is also causing changes in weather patterns that can affect agricultural
productivity. In areas that rely on agriculture for their livelihoods, changes in rainfall
patterns and temperature can lead to crop failures and reduced yields, leading to lost
income and increased food prices. The cost of food can increase significantly during times of
drought, as farmers struggle to grow crops and the supply of food decreases.
Another economic impact of global warming is the potential loss of revenue from the
tourism industry. Many regions rely on tourism as a major source of income, and changes in
weather patterns and environmental conditions can significantly impact tourist numbers.
For example, coral reefs, which are a major draw for tourists in many tropical regions, are
being damaged by rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification. This can lead to lessen
revenue for businesses that depend on tourism.
Global warming can also impact economic growth by decreasing the productivity of
workers. Higher temperatures can lead to heat stress and illness, making it difficult for
workers to perform their jobs effectively. In addition, extreme weather events can lead to
disruptions in supply chains, causing delays and increasing costs for businesses.
Finally, there is the potential for global warming to cause financial instability. As the impacts
of global warming become more severe, investors may begin to re-evaluate their
investments in industries that are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
This could lead to a decline in the value of these investments, which could in turn have
broader implications for financial markets and the wider economy.
In conclusion, global warming is having a wide range of economic impacts that are affecting
businesses, individuals, and governments in many different ways. These impacts include
increased costs, lost revenue, reduced economic growth, and financial instability. While the
effects of global warming are likely to become more severe in the future, there are steps
that can be taken to mitigate these impacts, including investing in renewable energy,
implementing climate change policies, and adapting to the changing environment.
PREVENTIVE MEASURE FOR GLOBAL WARMING
Preventing global warming is an urgent and critical challenge that requires immediate and
sustained action from individuals, governments, and businesses around the world. There are
several preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases
emitted into the atmosphere and slow the pace of global warming.
1. Reducing carbon emissions: The primary cause of global warming is the emission of
greenhouse gases, such as CO2 (carbon dioxide), into the environment. To prevent
global warming, it is essential to reduce these emissions by increasing energy
efficiency, transitioning to clean energy sources, and reducing carbon-intensive
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activities, such as deforestation and agriculture. Governments can play a critical role
in reducing carbon emissions by implementing policies, such as carbon taxes,
emissions trading systems, and renewable energy standards, that incentivize the
transition to low-carbon economies.
2. Increasing energy efficiency: Energy efficiency is an important aspect of reducing
greenhouse gas emissions, as it involves using less energy to accomplish the same
tasks. This can be achieved by using more energy-efficient technologies, such as LED
light bulbs and Energy Star certified appliances, and by reducing energy waste, such
as by turning off lights when leaving a room. Governments can play a role in promoting
energy efficiency by providing incentives, such as tax credits, for the adoption of
energy-efficient technologies.
3. Transitioning to clean energy: A transition to clean energy sources, such as wind, solar,
and hydropower, is essential to prevent global warming. These sources of energy
produce far fewer greenhouse gas emissions than fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, and
can help to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.
Governments can play a role in promoting the transition to clean energy by providing
incentives, such as tax credits, for the development and deployment of clean energy
technologies.
4. Promoting sustainable transportation: Transportation is a significant source of
greenhouse gas emissions, and it is essential to reduce these emissions to prevent
global warming. This can be achieved by promoting sustainable transportation
options, such as public transit, biking, and walking, and by reducing the use of singleoccupancy vehicles. Governments can play a role in promoting sustainable
transportation by investing in public transit infrastructure and by providing incentives,
such as tax credits, for the adoption of electric vehicles.
5. Protecting and restoring forests: Forests play a critical role in mitigating global
warming, as they absorb and store large amounts of carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere. To prevent global warming, it is essential to protect and restore forests,
as well as to reduce deforestation and other activities that release large amounts of
carbon into the atmosphere. Governments can play a role in protecting and restoring
forests by implementing policies, such as forest conservation and reforestation
programs, that incentivize the protection of forests and the restoration of degraded
land.
6. Encouraging sustainable agriculture: Agriculture is a significant source of greenhouse
gas emissions, and it is essential to reduce these emissions to prevent global warming.
This can be achieved by encouraging sustainable agriculture practices, such as
reducing tillage, increasing the use of cover crops, and reducing the use of synthetic
fertilizers and pesticides. Governments can play a role in promoting sustainable
agriculture by providing incentives, such as tax credits, for the adoption of sustainable
agriculture practices.
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7. Engaging in international cooperation: Preventing global warming requires
international cooperation, as the effects of global warming are not limited by national
borders. It is essential for governments to work together”to lessen greenhouse gas
emissions and to promote the transition to a low-carbon economy. This can be
achieved through international agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, which sets
a target of limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius and pursuing efforts
to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius.”
So, preventing global warming is an urgent and critical challenge.
THE FUTURE OF GLOBAL WARMING
The future of our planet is closely tied to the issue of global warming, and the steps we take
now will determine the health and sustainability of our planet for generations to come. In
order to prevent the worst impacts of global warming, it is essential to take action now to
reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a low-carbon, sustainable future.
The Path Forward to Prevent Global Warming
The path forward to prevent global warming involves a combination of individual actions,
government policies, and technological innovations. Governments must take the lead in
implementing policies that reduce emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy. This
can include implementing carbon pricing systems, subsidizing clean energy technologies, and
investing in research and development.
Individuals also have a role to play in reducing emissions. This can include making lifestyle
changes such as reducing energy use at home, using public transportation or electric vehicles,
and eating a more plant-based diet.
The Role of Governments and Individuals
Governments have a critical role to play in preventing global warming. Governments must
implement policies and regulations that reduce emissions and transition to a low-carbon
economy. This includes supporting the development and deployment of clean energy
technologies, implementing carbon pricing systems, and investing in research and
development.
Individuals also have a significant impact on global emissions. By making small changes in our
daily lives, such as reducing energy use at home, choosing sustainable transportation options,
and eating a more plant-based diet, we can contribute to reduce emissions and mitigate the
impacts of global warming.
The Potential Impacts of Climate Change
If action is not taken to prevent global warming, the impacts will be severe and far-reaching.
This includes rising sea levels that could displace millions of people, increased frequency and
severity of natural disasters, decreased crop yields and food security, and impacts on human
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health. Climate change is also likely to exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities,
and could lead to increased conflict and instability around the world.
The Opportunities for Action and Innovation
While the challenges of global warming are significant, they also represent an opportunity for
action and innovation. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy can create new jobs and
industries, and improve energy security and efficiency. Investing in clean energy and energy
efficiency technologies can also help to reduce emissions and mitigate the impacts of global
warming.
In conclusion, the future of global warming is in our hands. By taking action now to reduce
emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy, we can prevent the worst impacts of
global warming and create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
LITERATURE REVIEW
1. "The Causes and Consequences of Global Warming: An Overview" by John Cook and
Dana Nuccitelli (2013) In this literature review, Cook and Nuccitelli provide an
overview of the causes and consequences of global warming, highlighting the scientific
consensus on the issue. They examine the role of greenhouse gas emissions, primarily
carbon dioxide, in causing global warming and discuss the various impacts of this
phenomenon, including rising sea levels, more frequent and severe weather events,
melting of polar ice caps, and declines in biodiversity.
2. "The Impacts of Global Warming on Human Health" by Jonathan Patz and Jonathan
Foley (2005) In this literature review, Patz and Foley examine the impacts of global
warming on human health. They discuss how rising temperatures and altered
precipitation patterns are leading to the spread of disease-carrying insects, such as
mosquitoes, and how the decline in access to clean water is increasing the risk of
water-borne illnesses. They also highlight”the increasing frequency and severity of
extreme weather events, such as heat waves, hurricanes, and floods, and the health
and safety risks that these events pose to communities.”
3. "The Consequences of Global Warming for Biodiversity and Ecosystems" by Robert
Scholes and Nancy Thomas (2007) In this literature review, Scholes and Thomas
examine the consequences of global warming for biodiversity and ecosystems. They
discuss how changing temperatures and altered precipitation patterns are leading to
shifts in the distribution of plant and animal species and how these changes are
affecting ecosystems and reducing biodiversity. They also highlight the importance of
preserving biodiversity and ecosystems for the health of the planet and the well-being
of future generations.
4. "The Economic Costs of Global Warming" by Nicholas Stern (2007) In this literature
review, Nicholas Stern examines the economic costs of global warming. He discusses
how rising sea levels, more frequent and severe weather events, and declining human
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health and ecosystems are having significant impacts on economies, both in
developed and developing countries. He also highlights the importance of taking
action to mitigate the effects of global warming, as the costs of inaction are likely to
be far greater than the costs of action.
5. "The Role of Renewable Energy in Mitigating Global Warming" by Mark Jacobson and
Mark Delucchi (2009) In this literature review, Jacobson and Delucchi examine the role
of renewable energy in mitigating global warming. They discuss the potential of
renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and geothermal, to replace fossil fuels
and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They also highlight the importance of
transitioning to a renewable energy-based economy in order to mitigate the effects of
global warming and promote sustainable economic growth.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Global warming is one of the most pressing issues facing our planet today. The impacts of
global warming are already being felt around the world, and if action is not taken, they will
only become more severe in the coming years.
The Urgency of Preventing Global Warming
The urgency of preventing global warming cannot be overstated. Climate change is already
having a profound impact on our planet, and unless we take action now, the consequences
will only become more severe in the future. This includes rising sea levels, increased
frequency and severity of natural disasters, decreased crop yields and food security, and
impacts on human health.
The Importance of Taking Action Now
The importance of taking action now to prevent global warming cannot be overstated. While
the challenges of global warming are significant, they also represent an opportunity for action
and innovation. By taking right action in right direction now, we can save the world from worst
impacts of global warming.
The Benefits of Preventing Global Warming
Preventing global warming has numerous benefits, including improved energy efficiency,
increased energy security, and the creation of new jobs and industries. By transitioning to a
low-carbon economy, we can also help to reduce emissions and mitigate the impacts of global
warming, leading to a healthier and more sustainable future for all.
Recommendations for Preventing Global Warming
To prevent global warming, there are several recommendations that individuals,
governments, and businesses can follow. These include:
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1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by making lifestyle changes, such as reducing
energy use at home, choosing sustainable transportation options, and eating a more
plant-based diet.
2. Governments can implement policies and regulations that reduce emissions and
transition to a low-carbon economy. This includes supporting the development and
deployment of clean energy technologies, implementing carbon pricing systems, and
investing in research and development.
3. Businesses can reduce emissions by improving energy efficiency, transitioning to clean
energy sources, and reducing waste.
4. Invest in clean energy and energy efficiency technologies to reduce emissions and
mitigate the impacts of global warming.
5. Encourage international cooperation on global warming, including
implementation of international agreements such as the Paris Agreement.
the
In conclusion, preventing global warming is essential for the health and sustainability of our
planet.
REFERENCES
1. https://www.climatechangecommunication.org/wpcontent/uploads/2020/11/Cook_2020_deconstructing_denial.pdf
2. https://www.nature.com/articles/nature04188
3. https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/75490
4. https://www.lse.ac.uk/granthaminstitute/publication/the-economics-of-climatechange-the-stern-review/
5. https://web.stanford.edu/group/efmh/jacobson/Articles/I/CountriesWWS.pdf
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