summary: we started to break CO2 in 1950 starting from the Industrial Revolution and this is because of human activities, for example burning fossil fuels which releases CO2. these fossil fuels are what help power our homes, factories, airplanes, and cars. over the last 70 years, the world population has tripled and we consuming more animals which releases another pollutant called methane. All those gases are in the air, and when sunlight gets into the Earth’s atmosphere, some of the heat gets trapped, and the planet gets warmer. this is called the greenhouse effect, the issue is how fast the Earth is warming up. Climate change causes sea levels to rise, droughts, and natural disasters.

reflection:

The historical perspective, linking the increase in carbon dioxide emissions to the Industrial Revolution and subsequent population growth, highlights a critical timeline in understanding the origins of the issue. The dependency on fossil fuels for various aspects of modern life, from energy production to transportation, emerges as a major contributor to the rise in greenhouse gases, particularly CO2. The mention of the global population tripling over the past 70 years and the associated increase in animal consumption shedding light on methane emissions adds layers to the complexity of the climate change challenge. The interconnectedness of these factors in contributing to the greenhouse effect is explained, emphasizing the role of human activities in trapping heat in the Earth’s atmosphere and subsequently causing a warming effect. The reflection also draws attention to the urgency of the situation, as the Earth’s warming is noted to be occurring at an accelerated rate. The consequences of climate change, including rising sea levels, droughts, and more frequent natural disasters, are presented as tangible and concerning outcomes of this warming trend. This information prompts reflection on the need for global awareness, responsibility, and concerted efforts to address the root causes of climate change and mitigate its far-reaching effects on the environment and societies worldwide.

quote:

” the UN says if we warm by 1.5 degrees before the end of the century, we should be fine. The UN says even 2 degrees would ‘probably’ be alright. But again, the problem is speed. Because right now, we are on track to hit 1.5 degrees in only ten years. And If we don’t slow that warming down, it could mean catastrophe”