10-23-09

Global Warming

1. Causes

Carbon dioxide, Chlorofluorocarbons, Mathane and Nitrous oxide are all causes of global warming. Barbon dioxide is the worst culprit they are responsible for about half of the emittions that come from factorys. Chloroflurorcarbons are also human-generated but these stay up in the atmosphere for over 100 years because they are so stable.

2. Effects


Using high powered computer models are reaching consensus on the probable effects of global warming. If the world dosn't cut their emissions of greenhouse gases in the next few years, computer models predict that in the next few years the tempurates will increase by 2 to 4°F by 2030. Food experts predict a decrease in grain product by 2030

3. Controversies

In the 1990's the United Nations gathered to agree on a greenhouse gas emission cut. Within a year, 167 countries had signed. The countries emitting the most greenhouse gases were United States, Japan, India and China they all did not even get close to meeting the emission reductions agreed. Many politicians saw the need for greenhouse gas controls, others resisted any action for fear that emission controls might constrain buisness and slow economy. There is also tension between developed and less developed countries of the world. Many people argue that developed countries should be required to subsidize and underwrite emission controls in developing countires.