Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
chlorofluorocarbons and ozone in the lower part of the atmo-
sphere. Burning of fossil fuels, releases carbon dioxide gas to
the atmosphere. Greenhouse gasses and aerosols affect climate
by altering incoming solar radiation and outgoing infrared (ther-
mal) radiation that are part of Earth's energy balance. If the natu-
ral abundance of these gasses in the atmosphere is distorted, it
causes hazards by warming or cooling the Earth's surface. Since
the beginning of the industrial era (about 1750), human activities
are greatly influencing climate. This impact is increasing day by
day along with the changes in the natural processes such as solar
changes and volcanic eruptions.
Management of
the biodiversity
disaster caused
by climate
change
Most of the people worldwide are aware of the term global
warming. But very few of them know the reasons behind
global warming and the measures to control it. Hence, the first
and foremost management strategy will be spreading aware-
ness about climate change and its details. We people have to
minimise burning of fossil fuel to decrease the emission of
CO
2
into the atmosphere. Technologies must be developed to
design an alternate energy source. Gerald Meehl (National
Centre for Atmospheric Research) has rightly said
Many
people don't realize that we are committed right now to a
significant amount of global warming and sea level rise…the
longer we wait to do something about it, the more change we
will have.
People can set an example for others by first reduc-
ing the usage of coal, oil, electricity usage around the home
and so on. Some of the management strategies are mentioned
below:
•
Switch to energy-efficient lighting
•
Improving the efficiency of home appliances
•
Buying energy-efficient appliances when shopping for a
new appliance
•
Reducing energy needed for heating and cooling
•
Practicing fuel-efficient driving
•
Buying a fuel-efficient car
•
Recycling an air-conditioner coolant
•
Driving less
•
Painting your home with a light colour if you live in a
warm climate, or a dark colour in a cold climate
•
Choosing clean energy options
•
Buying clean energy certificates and carbon offsets
