You may have heard people use the words climate change and global warming in the same sentence believing them to be practically the same thing, however, that is not actually the case, in fact, global warming refers to rising global temperatures since the pre-industrial revolution (1850 to 1900), whereas climate change is the long-term changes to the world such as rising sea levels, melting glaciers, and the rising of precipitation.
Today, we will discuss what impact global warming and climate change have on the world, what causes the global temperature to go up, and what we can do to try and lessen the effects of climate change as a whole.
What Causes Global Warming and Climate Change?
Climate change comes down to the natural and human-caused warming, also known as global warming.
Since the 20th century when production has rapidly grown, humans have been the main cause of greenhouse gases. The presence of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere which includes carbon dioxide (the most common greenhouse gas), methane, and chlorofluorocarbons causes heat-trapping gases that heat up the planet.
Due to the amount of greenhouse gas emissions that are going up into the atmosphere the earth’s surface temperature and climate are growing at a rapid rate.
What is to Blame?
Burning fossil fuels, deforestation, methane leaks from natural gas infrastructure, and agriculture are some of the culprits in global warming and climate change.
Despite the fact that humans have a big part to play in changing climate patterns and pronounced global warming, the earth naturally can go through climate change, for example, the sun’s heat intensity can change as time goes on, and volcanic eruptions can add to the greenhouse gases.
Trying to Make Changes
Addressing human-caused climate change is a critical endeavor, and there are various avenues through which we can actively participate in preserving our planet. At the top of the hierarchy, large-scale businesses, such as those in the oil and gas industry, can play a pivotal role in combatting climate change.
They can take measures to prevent methane leaks from their gas infrastructure by utilizing advanced satellite technology for leak detection. Upon identifying leaks, the businesses can collaborate with specialized firms, like this Alberta cementing company (or its local counterpart), to seal any fissures in gas rigs using viscous and flowable cement, effectively minimizing emissions.
Similarly, another significant factor contributing to climate change is the rapid soil erosion resulting from various man-made interventions, such as construction and, to a large extent, the aviation industry. The jet blast produced by flights can disrupt fragile ecosystems near airports, intensifying soil erosion and compromising the health of the surrounding environment. To mitigate the damage caused, airfields can adopt solutions like Erizon Enviroloc Airfield or a similar alternative. These solutions can not only prevent erosion from jet blasts but can also promote optimal vegetation growth.
Further down the hierarchy, individuals have a significant role to play by making eco-conscious choices in their daily lives. This entails opting for carpooling or public transportation rather than using single-occupancy vehicles and incorporating eco-friendly practices into household decisions. For instance, you can choose cleaner heating oils from brothersoil.com and similar platforms, which leave minimal residue when utilized in heating systems. Likewise, you can opt for energy-efficient appliances like LED light bulbs, Energy Star-rated refrigerators, and smart thermostats to reduce electricity consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions. What’s more? You can also minimize single-use plastic products and opt for reusable alternatives like shopping bags, water bottles, and food containers. By collectively embracing these changes, we can all contribute significantly to the creation of a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.
The Global Change Research Program
The Global Change Research Program was approved in 1989, and it was all about climate research and what impact it has on society as well as what can be done.
The research they do is there for us to see what changes need to be made and how we can contribute to that for the safety of our planet’s climate.
Despite the fact that it was founded over 30 years ago for change, we have still caused more problems, mainly to do with the way we take in everyday things such as food and clothing.
If it is ‘convenient’ to us with fast results and cheap prices, it more than likely is adding to the greenhouse gases.
What Are The Consequences of Global Warming and Climate Change?
Obviously, there is an impact on our planet, and these below are the most well-known that we are aware of right now.
Severe Weather
We are having an increase in heat waves where there have been more dry conditions that have caused forest fires.
Water is evaporating a lot faster which is producing more droughts, and then it completely flips over to the other side as long-term shifts will cause heavier rain resulting in flooding in some areas of the world.
Animal Extinction
Because of the changing weather patterns, the habitats and climates that animals are used to, are changing so rapidly that they are not able to survive properly in these new conditions leading them to die out.
Polar bears are losing their ice, so they cannot find places to stay and raise their cubs as they cannot be in the water all the time, they need to set up a shelter for their families and get them food, but that is not easy to come by either, causing them to starve.
Oceans Are Becoming More Acidic
Oceans will absorb carbon dioxide and with this rising more and more, the ocean is naturally taking it all in causing it to become acidic.
This is affecting marine life with coral reefs dying out, and fish stomachs being filled with microplastic which is also going into humans.
Shells are eroding on crustaceans and they are dying out because there is nothing there to protect them.
What Can You Do?
It may feel hopeless at some points because you don’t know if we ever will be able to help the planet the way we want it to, but, it can happen as it was proven during the pandemic when so many of us were inside and not using public transport, for example, plus the other things that we didn’t do which contribute to global warming when we are outside.
There was a shift in climate change in the right direction, so it is possible that we can make changes to help our world.
Speak up About The Issues
To make a change, you have to be heard, so it is important that you use your voice and speak up about these issues as much as possible so you can have an impact on people in power and others around us.
Get involved with petitions, write to your representatives, and take part in saying your own piece about what needs to change and then implementing those changes yourself.
Travel in a Responsible Manner
If you don’t need to take your car, don’t take it, instead opt for walking or bike riding, or if you are able to why not look at doing a car share with another colleague of yours so you both are helping reduce carbon emissions?
Instead of taking a plane on holiday, take a train instead. This will cut down your carbon footprint and support the world.
Make Use of Smart Appliances
Embracing smart appliances is a proactive way to lead a greener and more sustainable lifestyle. These cutting-edge devices are designed with energy efficiency and environmental consciousness in mind. Smart appliances, such as thermostats, refrigerators, and lighting systems, enable you to exercise greater control over your home’s energy consumption.
For instance, smart thermostats can learn your heating and cooling preferences, optimizing temperature settings to reduce energy wastage. Smart lighting systems allow you to remotely manage and schedule lighting, minimizing unnecessary electricity use. Additionally, appliances like energy-efficient smart refrigerators are designed to reduce power consumption while keeping your groceries fresh.
By incorporating smart appliances into your home, you not only decrease your carbon footprint but also enjoy cost savings through lower utility bills. This technological shift empowers individuals to contribute positively to environmental conservation while enjoying the convenience and comfort of modern living.
Maintain Your HVAC System
In your quest for a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, don’t overlook the significance of maintaining your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. It stands as a pivotal element in reducing your carbon footprint and embracing greener living. When your HVAC system receives regular maintenance from experts at hollenbachoil.com and similar platforms, it functions at peak efficiency, dramatically curtailing energy wastage.
It is undoubtedly true that routine maintenance tasks, such as filter cleaning or replacement, duct inspection for leaks, and precise thermostat calibration, elevate your HVAC system’s overall performance. Additionally, an efficiently operating HVAC system bolsters indoor air quality, creating a healthier home atmosphere.
Eat Sustainable Food
Wildlife extinction is driven on a large scale by food production.
Farming animals for meat and dairy will have a huge impact on climate change as there are a lot of requirements that go into keeping these spaces working at all times.
Try and eat a more plant-based diet filled with fruits and vegetables. This will lower your personal impact on the environment, plus it can be a lot healthier for you.
These foods have grown in popularity over the years, and more foods for vegans and vegetarians are on the market so you don’t have to worry about running out of options with what to have.
Reduce Your Waste and Recycle
If you want to make a change it is important that you recycle. Reducing the amount you throw in the bin will reduce the landfills that are getting clogged up with items that do not break down safely into the ground and will cause more emissions of greenhouse gases.
Plastic pollution in the ocean has become an extreme issue with it being increasingly evident that the ocean as well as small rivers are suffering.
Conclusion
Have we answered your question – “What is the difference between climate change and global warming?” Hopefully, we have been able to and you are a lot more aware of the impact of both and what can be done to reduce the harmful impact that humans have had.