Earth in Crisis
Earth in Crisis
Earth in Crisis: Fundamentals of Greenhouse Gases
The Greenhouse Effect and its Impact on Climate
The greenhouse effect is essential for maintaining a stable climate on Earth by trapping heat in the atmosphere through greenhouse gases. While natural processes like water vapor and carbon dioxide play a crucial role, human activities such as burning fossil fuels have led to an excess of these gases, causing the planet to dangerously heat up and disrupt ecosystems.
Climate Change vs. Global Warming
Climate change encompasses long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns, while global warming specifically focuses on the increase in Earth's average temperature due to human activities. The consequences of these changes are far-reaching, affecting sea temperatures, intensifying storms, impacting agriculture, and posing a significant threat to biodiversity.
Impact on Belize and Sustainable Solutions
In Belize, climate change has resulted in rising sea levels, affecting coastal areas and coral reefs. Changes in precipitation patterns have disrupted farming practices, while extreme weather events like hurricanes pose a growing threat to local communities. Sustainable solutions include using energy-efficient appliances, opting for sustainable transportation, planting trees, and adopting alternative energy sources like solar power to mitigate the effects of climate change.
