Global warming can lead to the destruction of the planet we live in. It is a sad state of affairs that the human race with its unquenchable thirst for manufacturing and industry, is rapidly leading to the annihilation of our environment. Scientists have offered a multitude of explanations to what global warming is - but in essence, it’s the gradual increase in temperature of the atmosphere. This is caused by the burning of fossil fuel, such as coal, oil and gasoline. The Carbon Dioxide (among others) generated by various consumers of fossil fuel on a large scale, such as power plants, manufacturing companies and transport systems is let into the atmosphere - causing earth’s temperature to rise. The entrapment of certain gases in the atmosphere is a phenomenon known as the ‘Green House Effect.’
Icebergs melting in Antarctica, increase in sea level, dried up rivers and the unpredictable weather pattern all over the world are the consequences of global warming. Loss of life and the extinction of animals is at a record high on both land and water. As the seas are getting warmer, aquatic species cannot cope with the increased temperatures. Drought affects farmers and prolongs for longer periods of time, as much as five years in some countries, leading to even the evaporation of entire rivers. Wildfires are becoming larger and more difficult to control. In 2018 alone, loss of property via wildfires was estimated at 10 billion dollars. Wildfires can lead to the unprecedented level of loss of trees, vegetation and animals.
Globally, a lot can be done to negate the effect. For instance, walk more and drive less. If your destination is just a few minutes away, you could walk instead of opting for transportation. It helps you in two ways - you become more healthy and save on a pound of Carbon Dioxide for every mile you don’t drive. Plant a tree - or as many as possible for that matter: A single tree will absorb one ton of Carbon Dioxide over its lifetime. Simply turning off electrical devices when not being used will save us thousands of Carbon Dioxide per year.
Abdullah Mufeel,
Grade 6,
Hejaaz International School,
Dehiwela.