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