Global Warming – “A Dire Issue Faced by Humanity”
Global warming refers to the Earth’s rising temperature, primarily caused by the combustion of fossil fuels such as petrol, diesel, oil, coal, and natural gas. This results in an increase of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, including carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). These gases trap the sun’s reflected heat, elevating the Earth’s temperature and warming our environment.
The ozone layer, composed of three oxygen atoms (O3), resides approximately 15-20 kilometers above the Earth’s surface, shielding it from harmful ultraviolet rays. Ozone reacts with these rays to produce beneficial oxygen. Unfortunately, human irresponsibility threatens the ozone layer through the use of freon gas in refrigerators, air conditioners, sprays, and pesticides like DDT. These substances release chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), a dangerous gas that rises to the atmosphere. Sunlight breaks down CFCs into chlorine, which then reacts with the ozone layer, causing its destruction. A single chlorine atom can neutralize thousands of ozone atoms. A depleted ozone layer could have severe consequences, leading to direct exposure to ultraviolet rays causing fires, skin damage, and even cancer. In such a scenario, surviving on Earth could become nearly impossible due to the heightened temperatures.
Another contributor to global warming is deforestation—cutting down trees. Humans inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, while trees absorb CO2 and release oxygen through photosynthesis. This delicate balance is disrupted when trees are felled, leading to an oxygen shortage and increased carbon dioxide levels—a greenhouse gas. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, elevating surface temperatures. Trees also aid in transpiration, releasing water vapor that combines with air, maintaining a hydrated atmosphere and stable temperatures.
It’s evident that a well-hydrated atmosphere helps regulate temperature, but deforestation can disrupt this balance. The reduction of trees can lead to irregular rainfall patterns, causing climate change. Deforestation not only affects weather patterns but also intensifies the impact of weather events. Destructive rains and soil erosion can devastate landscapes, leading to significant land loss.
Hence, these factors collectively contribute to global warming. It’s clear that the melting of mountain ice and glaciers can accelerate due to this phenomenon. Rising sea and river levels may lead to the destruction of coastal areas. High temperatures can spark forest fires, making it increasingly challenging for organisms to survive on Earth.
It is both our individual and collective responsibility, as well as that of governments worldwide, to address this pressing issue. Governments should explore alternative energy sources for engines, reducing dependence on petroleum and fossil fuels. Deforestation should be curbed, and the public should collaborate with governments in planting more trees, reinforcing the importance of ecological balance.