Global Warming: Turning the World into a Frying Pan

Ever since the time I saw the Polar Regions on television, I have been in love with its landscape and wildlife. It was one of my deepest desires to visit these regions and see the Polar bears with my own eyes. Alas, this might remain just a desire if the recent rise in global temperatures continues. This phenomenon known as global warming is the result of indiscriminate human commercial activity.

Global warming is usually caused due to increase in the concentration of green house gases such as carbon dioxide, methane and water vapor. The last decade especially has seen an unusual rise in temperatures which in turn has resulted in unusual changes in seasonal patterns. The temperature rise has also contributed to coral reef bleaching and increased melting of glaciers.

I remember the times when summers used to be pleasant and we all looked forward to going out on long walks during the afternoons. But in the past few years the summer temperatures have increased to such an extent that we dare not go out walking even to the next street due to the unbearable heat.

If the present trend continues, several low lying countries such as Maldives and Bangladesh will be completely wiped out from the face of the earth due to rise in sea levels. This rise in water level is due to rapid melting of glacial ice especially in the Polar Regions.

The ozone layer which protects the earth from deadly ultraviolet radiations coming from the sun is also being depleted by these green house gases. A new phenomenon which has affected several regions of the earth is that of ozone holes caused due to destruction of the ozone layer. In Australia this has led to an increased incidence of skin cancer among people due to exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays.

The major cause for this rapid rise in global temperatures is the increase in the amounts of green house gases. These gases are mainly created by

Using fossil fuels such as petrol and diesel

Increase in industrial activity

Rapid deforestation

One of the major reasons for the depletion of the ozone layer is the use of CFC gases which are released from refrigerators, aerosols, propellants in spray cans and from air conditioners.

The effects of global warming are being felt in every part of the world even though it is the industrialized nations which are mostly responsible for increased emissions of green house gases.

Each of us can contribute in the control and prevention of global warming just by taking some simple practical steps

We should try to save fuel and increase fuel economy. Go for public transport rather than using our own vehicles for everything.

Go for renewable sources of energy such as solar and wind energy. There are several alternatives available to devices which are dependent solely on electricity.

Switch to energy saving bulbs

Plant trees and encourage greenery. Not only will it increase the beauty of the surroundings but also reduce harmful emissions since trees absorb gases such as carbon dioxide.

Let us take these steps without any further hesitation in order to maintain our planet in its pristine glory and offer it unspoiled to our future generations.