GTA Group 3

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Reasons for Climate Change and Global Warming

Table Content

Introduction

Climate change refers to significant changes in global temperatures and weather


patterns over time. While climate change is a broad term that encompasses
various alterations in climate, global warming specifically refers to the long-
term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to human activities,
primarily the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Understanding these
phenomena is crucial because they have profound implications for ecosystems,
weather patterns, sea levels, and human health.

The causes of climate change and global warming are multifaceted but primarily
stem from anthropogenic activities. Recognizing these causes is essential for
developing effective strategies to mitigate their impacts and adapt to changing
conditions.

 Main reasons contributing to climate change and global warming:-


 Human Activities as Primary Drivers ; such as

1. Burning Fossil Fuels

The combustion of fossil fuels—such as coal, oil, and natural gas—is the largest
source of greenhouse gas emissions globally. When these fuels are burned for
energy production, transportation, and industrial processes, they release
significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) into the
atmosphere. According to estimates, fossil fuels account for over 75% of global
greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 90% of all carbon dioxide emissions. This
process not only contributes to global warming but also leads to air pollution,
which has additional health impacts.

2. Deforestation

Deforestation is another critical factor contributing to climate change. Trees


play a vital role in absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere; when forests are
cleared for agriculture or urban development, this stored carbon is released
back into the atmosphere. Approximately 12 million hectares of forest are
destroyed each year, significantly reducing nature’s ability to mitigate
emissions. Deforestation accounts for roughly a quarter of global greenhouse
gas emissions, exacerbating the greenhouse effect.

3. Agriculture and Livestock Farming

Agricultural practices contribute to climate change through several mechanisms.


The clearing of land for farming often involves deforestation, while livestock
farming produces methane—a potent greenhouse gas—during digestion
(enteric fermentation). Additionally, fertilizers used in crop production release
nitrous oxide into the atmosphere. The combination of these factors makes
food production a major contributor to climate change.

4. Industrial Processes

Manufacturing industries also play a significant role in increasing greenhouse


gas emissions. Many industrial processes rely on fossil fuels for energy, resulting
in substantial CO2 emissions during production activities such as cement
manufacturing or metal smelting. Furthermore, certain materials like plastics
are derived from fossil fuel sources themselves, adding another layer of
emissions associated with their lifecycle.

5. Transportation

Transportation is a major contributor to global carbon dioxide emissions due to


its reliance on petroleum-based products like gasoline and diesel fuel. Road
vehicles account for the largest share of transport-related emissions; however,
shipping and aviation are also growing contributors as demand for goods
increases globally. Transport accounts for nearly one-quarter of global energy-
related carbon-dioxide emissions.

6. Energy Consumption in Buildings

Residential and commercial buildings consume over half of all electricity


generated worldwide, much of which still comes from burning fossil fuels. As
energy demand rises—particularly for heating and cooling—so do greenhouse
gas emissions associated with electricity generation from non-renewable
sources.

7. Overconsumption and Waste Generation

Consumer behavior significantly influences climate change through excessive


consumption patterns that lead to increased waste generation and resource
depletion. The wealthiest individuals disproportionately contribute to
greenhouse gas emissions through their lifestyles; it is estimated that the richest
1% account for more combined emissions than the poorest 50%. This
overconsumption places additional strain on natural resources and contributes
further to environmental degradation.

summary

(Table እንደ አስፈላጊነቱ ታካትታለህ Mola!!!)

climate change is primarily driven by human-induced factors including burning


fossil fuels, deforestation, agricultural practices, industrial processes,
transportation systems, energy consumption in buildings, and overall
consumption patterns that lead to waste generation.

Reference
 Climate Change: What Everyone Needs to Know” by Joseph Romm

 The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming” by David Wallace-Wells

 This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate” by Naomi Klein

 climate.nasa.gov

 ipcc.ch

 wri.org

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