Global warming is a phenomenon that has been occurring for several decades, but its roots can be traced back even further. The term “global warming” refers to the gradual increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
Early Signs of Global Warming
While the concept of global warming was not widely recognized until the late 20th century, there were early signs of climate change dating back to the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries. The burning of coal, oil, and gas for energy began releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing temperatures to rise.
Scientific Awareness
By the mid-20th century, scientists began to study the effects of human activities on the climate. In the 1970s, researchers started to notice a pattern of rising global temperatures and attributed it to the burning of fossil fuels. This led to the term “global warming” being coined and brought attention to the need for action to mitigate its effects.
Impact on the Environment
Global warming has had a significant impact on the environment, causing sea levels to rise, glaciers to melt, and extreme weather events to become more frequent. The increase in greenhouse gases has also led to ocean acidification, which threatens marine life and ecosystems.
Current State of Global Warming
Today, global warming continues to be a pressing issue as temperatures rise at an alarming rate. The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015, aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. However, without significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the Earth’s climate will continue to warm, leading to more severe consequences for the planet.
In conclusion, global warming began centuries ago with the Industrial Revolution and has only accelerated in recent decades due to human activities. It is crucial for individuals, governments, and industries to take action to reduce emissions and limit the impact of climate change on the planet.
Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.