THE EVIDENCE OF CLIMATE CHANGE
Evidence of climate change, including rising temperatures and melting ice, underscores the urgency for action. Understanding these signs is crucial for effective climate solutions and protection.
"According to NASA, the Earth's average surface temperature has increased by about 1.2°C since the late 19th century."
Climate change represents one of the most pressing challenges of our time, deeply impacting the Earth’s climate system. The evidence supporting climate change is extensive, drawing from a variety of scientific observations and research studies.
Research has consistently shown that global temperatures are rising at an unprecedented rate. According to NASA, the Earth’s average surface temperature has increased by about 1.2°C since the late 19th century. This warming trend correlates with higher levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), which trap heat and contribute to the greenhouse effect. Studies published in “Nature” have reinforced these findings, noting that the past decade has been the warmest on record.
The impact of climate change is also evident in the dramatic changes occurring in polar and glacial regions. The National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) reports a significant decline in Arctic sea ice extent over recent decades, which has substantial implications for global sea levels. The World Glacier Monitoring Service (WGMS) further highlights that glaciers worldwide are retreating rapidly, contributing to rising sea levels and altered ocean currents.
"The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has documented an increase in the intensity and occurrence of extreme weather, including hurricanes, heatwaves, and heavy rainfall."
Extreme weather events have also become more frequent and severe. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has documented an increase in the intensity and occurrence of extreme weather, including hurricanes, heat waves, and heavy rainfall. This uptick in extreme events is linked to warmer atmospheric and oceanic temperatures, which enhance the energy available for such disturbances.
These scientific findings provide a clear and compelling picture of the ongoing shifts in our climate system. By understanding and addressing these changes, we can develop more effective strategies to mitigate their impacts and work towards a more sustainable future.
THE FOLLOWINGS ARE THE FOUR MAIN EVIDENCES OF CLIMATE CHANGE
MELTING POLAR ICE
The accelerated melting of polar ice caps and glaciers contributes to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities. This melting also disrupts ecosystems and amplifies the warming effect by reducing the reflective ice surfaces that help cool the planet.
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RISING GLOBAL TEMPERATURES
Global average temperatures have risen by over 1°C since the late 19th century, driven by human activities. This warming is evident in more frequent and intense heatwaves, warmer oceans, and shifting weather patterns.
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INCREASED FREQUENCY OF EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS
Climate change is intensifying weather events like hurricanes, floods, droughts, and wildfires. These events are becoming more frequent and severe, leading to widespread environmental damage and impacting communities worldwide.
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OCEAN ACIDIFICATION
The oceans absorb around 30% of CO2 emissions, increasing acidity. Ocean acidification threatens marine life, particularly coral reefs and shellfish, by disrupting their ability to form calcium-based structures, causing broader ecosystem imbalances.
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References
1. NASA, 2021. Global Climate Change: Vital Signs of the Planet. National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Available at:
https://climate.nasa.gov/
2. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), 2021. Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Cambridge University Press. Available at:
https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/