The Climate Problem

Global warming results from excess heat-trapping greenhouse gases  (GHGs) in the earth's atmosphere. Carbon dioxide is the most abundant GHG and, therefore, is considered the primary driver of rising atmospheric temperatures. GHG emissions are also called carbon emissions.

The daily level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere exceeded 400 parts per million for the first time in human history in 20136. Despite valiant efforts made so far, the amount of daily carbon dioxide is hovering over 420 ppm.

The changing climate has far-reaching consequences for human society. Unfortunately, the consequences are not fairly distributed. Although developed countries are the major contributors to climate change, the effects are felt more in developing countries. 

Climate change impacts our environment, economy, physical well-being, and the fabric of society. The rise in sea level increases flooding incidents in coastal communities. Extreme weather events like hurricanes, forest fires, floods, heat waves, and tropical storms are lasting longer and happening more frequently.

Climate change can also affect air quality by increasing ground-level ozone. Agriculture depends on stable climate conditions; therefore, unprecedented droughts, floods, heatwaves, etc., can result in food insecurity. Furthermore, climate change can influence health-determining factors and gravely endanger human health.