1. Global Warming - Global Warming is the increase in temperature of the atmosphere, resulting from the greenhouse effect. Some gases that aid in the greenhouse effect have become much more present in today's atmosphere than ever before, such as carbon dioxide.
Al Gore, a front-runner in the debate, points to a trend in CO2 and temperature over hundreds of thousands of years. The two trends mirror each other until recent years, when the CO2 levels skyrocketed, leading some scientists to believe that temperatures will soon follow*. However, many people also point out the climate changes the earth constantly endures, such as the medieval ice age and the heat of the dust bowl. At this point time, we are experiencing an increase in heat and sea-levels, but nothing that has not come outside the level of extremity.
Al Gore, a front-runner in the debate, points to a trend in CO2 and temperature over hundreds of thousands of years. The two trends mirror each other until recent years, when the CO2 levels skyrocketed, leading some scientists to believe that temperatures will soon follow*. However, many people also point out the climate changes the earth constantly endures, such as the medieval ice age and the heat of the dust bowl. At this point time, we are experiencing an increase in heat and sea-levels, but nothing that has not come outside the level of extremity.2. What do we do? - While no definite proof for global warming exists, greenhouse gases produce many other problems. People around the Los Angeles and San Fransisco valley do not come out of their homes because pollution is so bad. In addition, greenhouse gases cause acid rain which destroys crops. Subsequently, the byproducts that are made alongside greenhouse gases(a.k.a., industrial waste) also hurt our environment. Thus, while Global warming is not yet confirmed, greenhouse gases present many more problems than commonly seen
3. What's being done? - Automakers, who are receiving a push from the government, are building more efficient cars, such as the Toyota Prius or the Ford Escape. Additionally, people are planting trees to equalize their carbon emissions. However, these programs merely sweep the problem under the rug. If America truly wants to "go green" we must look away from coal burning plants, which emit large quantities of CO2, to renewable energy, such as wind, solar, or even nuclear. We must also abandon petrochemicals which decompose ridiculously slow and produce greenhouse gases in the making.
4. What needs to be done?- For America to sever its shackles with oil and coal, the government could place restrictions or taxes on such products and tax-breaks to companies who support these restrictions.
5. What can you do? - For a person to live entirely petrochemical, gasoline, or coal-powered electricity free is nearly impossible. Walking places helps, but to truly reduce your carbon footprint, write your congressman or local power supplier and voice your dissidence with greenhouse emission.
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