The greenhouse effect, global warming, and individual environmental action

Environmental Isses

Explain the greenhouse effect. What are the most important greenhouse gases?

Like a greenhouse, the earth's atmosphere uses heat from the sun. Certain gases in the earth's atmosphere like water vapors, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane trap the sun's energy. Without these gases, heat would escape back into space and Earth's average temperature would be about 60°F colder, making it impossible for human beings to survive ('the Greenhouse Effect," EPA, 2008). However, the greenhouse effect has made the earth artificially warmer, due to the increased use of fossil fuels since the Industrial revolution, deforestation, and the increased consumption and raising of animals that let off methane in their waste (How are extra greenhouse gases produced?" CBBC, 2008).

What calamities do scientists predict may result from global warming? Name at least three possible consequences to human health.

The sea levels will rise because water expands when it is heated, and polar ice will melt, causing costal flooding. Hurricanes, tornadoes and other storms caused by changes in heat and levels of water evaporation will become more common. The increased heat may cause lakes and streams to dry up in drought-plagued areas of the world. Hot areas like deserts will grow hotter, while cool areas will not be able to support animals that need to live in cold temperatures. Thus, natural disasters, thirst, the displacement of species and peoples from their native habitats, homes, and ways of life, are all likely consequences of global warming ("So what could happen?" CBBC, 2008).

What steps can individuals take to reduce greenhouse gases?

Replacing regular light bulbs with energy-efficient designs. Turning off the lights, or other appliances when not using them. Using more energy-efficient appliances. Driving a hybrid vehicle or at least a smaller, used vehicle. Walking or riding a bike more often. Eating less meat and dairy products. Planting a garden to reduce the need to ship products far distances and to release environmentally friendly gases into the air. Buying less products produced by industrialization. Voting for environmentally-friendly politicians who believe in the reality of global warming. Turning down the thermostat. Planting trees. Raising awareness in the local community. Recycling and reusing old products. Creating a compost pile. Taking environmentalism seriously, and not treating it like a fad.