Reshaping the Earth

What is global warming?

Since the late 1800s, the temperature of the Earth’s surface has risen, and it is predicted that this increase will continue. This phenomenon, known as global warming, is thought to result from human activities. By burning wood and fossil fuels such as coal, we have increased the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere by 25 percent. At the same time the average temperature of the world’s surface has increased by about 0.8 degree Celsius. It seems likely that there is a connection between this temperature increase and increased levels of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide. 

Picture credit: google

 

 

 

What causes air pollution?

Air pollution is mostly a result of human activities. The exhausts from motor vehicles are one of the main pollutants. They contain greenhouse gases that are thought to contribute to global warming. Exhaust gases also contain substances such as sulphur and nitrogen oxides that can damage the lungs. Recently, vast clouds of choking smoke have appeared over parts of Asia. The smoke comes from the rainforest fires that clear land for farming.

Picture credit: google