‘Climate Change’ or ‘Global Warming’ represents a change in global or regional climate patterns. It has been attributed to the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
It is universally agreed by most scientists that the main cause of global warming is the human expansion of the ‘Greenhouse Effect’. Human activities across the globe are changing the natural greenhouse. The burning of fossil fuels like coal and oil have increased the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide. the consequences of changing the natural greenhouse are not easy to accurately predict. However there are a number of possible effects such as the excessive heating and cooling of certain regions. The heating of regions such at the north and south pole will result in the melting of ice capes and increase sea levels.
Despite the immense research and evidence there is still debate from some as to the existence of the issue.
Debate?
Many faces in the media, have openly argued against the existence of Climate change. Most famous of which being US President Donald Trump. He has on the record stated that he believes Climate Change is a Hoax created by the Chinese.
Since the late 19th Century the average surface temperature of the planet has risen by around 0.9 degrees Celsius. Research states that most warming has occurred over the last 35 years and the 5 hottest temperatures being since 2010. So it seems almost comical to suggest that the topic could be a Hoax. However it’s true that the leader of one of the top world powers denies its existence entirely. even with compelling statistics such as 2016 being the hottest year on record.
There are articles exploring the ways in which different countries around the world tackle their own levels of pollution.
Dr. Christine Nam (GERICS) discusses how climate risks can impact Europe’s burgeoning space sector, which in turn has cascading risks that can impact Europe’s peace and security.
Here, Professor Patricia Luis (1,2) from UCLouvain explains how integral CO2 capture is along with the production of sodium bicarbonate crystals in reducing global emissions.
British residents on average emit around 11.7 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions, which is five times over the level recommended by the Paris agreement.
Dr Susanne Etti, global environmental impact manager at Intrepid Travel, attended COP27 – here are her reflections on what’s been achieved, what’s failed, and where travel emissions go from here.
Mireia Figueras Alsius, Climate Officer at Health Care Without Harm Europe, directs our thoughts towards climate-smart healthcare, including comments on extreme weather events.
