Global warming solutions

Solutions to Global Warming

The Industrial Revolution led to an increase in the Earth’s surface temperature. According to NASA, this rise has reached approximately 0.9°C above its natural average. Scientists agree that the primary cause of this increase is the rising emissions of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O), into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat within the atmosphere, leading to climate change. The levels of these gases have notably risen since the late 19th century due to the extensive use of fossil fuels in industries, transportation, energy production, and other sectors.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warned in its 2018 report of disasters that may occur if the Earth’s surface temperature rises above 1.5°C, including rising sea levels, extreme climate changes, and the loss of entire ecosystems. The IPCC emphasized the need for urgent and long-term global solutions to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 45% by 2030.

International Solutions to Global Warming

Governments play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions by enacting laws and effective regulations, such as imposing carbon taxes on industries. Notable international achievements to combat global warming include:

Nobel Peace Prize

The Nobel Peace Prize contributes to mitigating global warming by encouraging individuals to spread awareness about climate change and its human causes and to propose solutions. In 2007, the IPCC and former U.S. Vice President Al Gore jointly received the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts in addressing climate change.

Climate Action Summit 2019

On September 23, 2019, the Climate Action Summit was held to foster cooperation among participating parties to implement swift and effective measures against climate change. The summit brought together global leaders, private sector representatives, and civil society members to establish joint solutions for key sectors, such as heavy industry and energy. A follow-up summit was scheduled for 2020 to renew commitments.

Kyoto Protocol

In 1995, many countries began negotiations to address climate change. Two years later, the Kyoto Protocol was established, legally binding participating nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions according to agreed-upon goals. The protocol was divided into two periods: the first from 2008 to 2012, and the second from 2013 to 2020. Currently, the protocol includes 192 parties.

Paris Agreement

In 2015, the Paris Agreement was adopted during the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) conference. This historic agreement aimed to intensify and accelerate measures to combat climate change and reduce CO₂ emissions. Unlike previous initiatives, the Paris Agreement united all nations, including developing countries, in the fight against climate change. Its primary goal is to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Individual Solutions to Global Warming

There are many individual actions that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat global warming, including:

1. Recycling: Recycling household waste can reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 1,089 kg annually if half of the household waste is recycled.
2. Reducing air conditioner use: Insulating walls, doors, and windows can help maintain moderate indoor temperatures, reducing energy needed for heating and cooling. Programmable thermostats can save about 907 kg of CO₂ annually.
3. Using energy-efficient light bulbs: Replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with fluorescent or LED bulbs reduces energy consumption by two-thirds and emits 70% less heat. If all homes adopt energy-efficient lighting, it would eliminate approximately 40.8 billion kg of greenhouse gases, equivalent to removing 7.5 million cars from the roads.
4. Using energy-efficient appliances: Opting for energy-efficient household appliances reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
5. Using less hot water: Adjusting water heater settings, using low-flow showerheads, and washing with warm or cold water instead of hot water can save energy. These practices can prevent the emission of 159–227 kg of CO₂ annually.
6. Turning off unused devices: Switching off unused electronics, lights, and appliances, and using water sparingly during activities like brushing teeth can save electricity and reduce global warming.
7. Encouraging others to conserve energy: Sharing tips on recycling and energy conservation with friends, neighbors, and colleagues promotes collective action.
8. Reducing vehicle use: Walking, cycling, or using public transportation instead of driving can significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. Ensuring vehicle efficiency and tire maintenance also reduces fuel consumption. Saving 3.78 liters of gasoline prevents the release of approximately 9 kg of CO₂.
9. Avoiding excessive packaging: Reducing waste by 10% can prevent the emission of 544 kg of CO₂.
10. Using programmable thermostats: Properly set thermostats on air conditioners can save 907 kg of CO₂ annually.
11. Promoting sustainable business practices: Companies can reduce emissions by adopting sustainable sourcing and using renewable energy. For instance, IKEA relies on sustainable wood sources, and Apple is committed to renewable energy.
12. Planting trees: Trees absorb CO₂ and release oxygen. A single tree can absorb approximately 1 ton of CO₂ during its lifetime. Preventing deforestation and promoting efficient reforestation are vital.
13. Using renewable energy: Transitioning to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal power reduces air pollution, costs less, and meets global energy demands sustainably.

Addressing Climate Change

Various factors contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, including deforestation, agricultural practices, land use changes, and fossil fuel extraction and combustion. Solutions include:

1. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: This involves decreasing methane, CO₂, and other emissions.
2. Restoring natural carbon sinks: Protecting ecosystems such as forests and oceans allows them to absorb CO₂. This includes preventing deforestation and habitat destruction, encouraging reforestation, and promoting the growth of evergreen trees.