Text Production Essay #2

There is a greenhouse gases layer in the atmosphere which traps outgoing infrared radiation in the Earth. It is good because it keeps the Earth warm. However, the concentration of greenhouse gases has increased dramatically because of human activities. This makes the layer becomes thicker and more radiation is trapped in the atmosphere. (Al Gore 2007) This phenomenon is called global warming. Generally, global warming refers to an increase in the average global temperature due to the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. There are many potential consequences of global warming in terms of climate change and they should be tackled with prompt actions as soon as possible.

One of the conceivable impacts of global warming is the rising of sea level. Since the middle of 19th century, sea level has been raised, mainly due to the human-induced climate change. During the 20^th century, sea level rose about 15 to 20 centimeters each year. In fact, Greenland is now in melting process. According to a scientific advisor, Tony Blair, if the melting process of Greenland continues, the map of the world has to be redrawn. The low altitude countries such as Florida, San Francisco, Beijing and Bangladesh will sink into underwater. As a result, hundred million or more people will suffer. (Al Gore 2007)

Besides, the extinction of the animals is also one of the potential effects of global warming in terms of climate change. Arctic is a country which affected by climate change significantly. As the temperature of Arctic rises rapidly, the summer ice disappears gradually. Polar bears which depend on sea ice for hunting will be unable to survive in the future. Furthermore, the erratic weather will affect the growth of plants, thus reducing the habitats and food resources for certain animals. Undoubtedly, it decreases the number of migratory birds flying to the Arctic every summer to breed and nest because some breeding habitats have been vanished. (Chris Woodford 2006)

Therefore, global warming must be solved in order to save the Earth from being damaged continuously. As the research shows that greenhouse gases especially carbon dioxide have caused temperature to rise between 0.6°C and 0.9°C over the past century (Holli Riebeek 2007), a very effective way to solve the problem is to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide. To do that, we can use energy efficiency appliances. For example, we can replace the incandescent lamps with fluorescent lamps. We can cycle, walk, or take ride on buses instead of using personal cars. According to Al Gore An Inconvenient Truth A Global Warming, the 2007 film directed by Davis Guggenheim, if we all use more energy efficient appliances, we can reduce the carbon dioxide emission to the level achieved in year 1970.

Moreover, it is ridiculous to compare our planet with economy. If we do not have planet, we can do nothing. If we do the right thing, then we can create a lot of wealth and jobs which can lead to economic growth. (Al Gore 2007) Therefore, the world’s governments should participate in Kyoto Protocol which aimed at fighting global warming. According to the Stern Report, the cost of solving this problem will be greater tomorrow so it is important to tackle climate change immediately. Stern also claims that it only cost one percent of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) which is 20 times less if we deal with the effects later. (Chris Woodford 2006)

In conclusion, global warming in terms of climate change brings many problems to the Earth such as the rise of the sea level and the extinction of animals. It is a very serious issue and we, as human beings, should take responsible actions to tackle this problem expeditiously. Reducing the emission of carbon dioxide is a good way. As the saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure”, it would be better if we can do something to prevent the global warming from getting worse.