what are some of the effects of global warming in
Is Carbon Dioxide the Prime Cause?
The effects of global warming has already been observed and experienced in different parts of the world. The melting of polar ice caps, rise of tides, and the submergence of some small islands are just some of the adverse effects of this global phenomenon (see Ten Deadly Effects of Global Warming). But in order to fully comprehend its impact to society and to the environment, we must first understand the factors that trigger its existence. What causes global warming? Which has the greatest contribution?
As cited by many scientists and environmentalists, one of the major reasons for global warming is greenhouse gases, specifically CARBON DIOXIDE. These gases serve as barriers in the atmosphere that trap heat. They are emitted from several sources such as:
a. Combustion of fossil fuels in cars, factories and electricity production. This is pointed out as the most significant cause of global warming. Fossil fuels are made up of organic matter such as coal, or oil, and when burned, they give off carbon dioxide. Likewise, mining of coal and oil allows the escape of methane, another greenhouse gas. Methane is naturally in the ground and digging up the fossil fuel also digs up the methane stored underground.
b. Landfills. Methane is created when bacteria break down organic matter under oxygen-free conditions. Landfills are excellent sources of methane where wastes buried beneath layers of wastes are decomposed under anaerobic environment.
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