Global Warming 101 Lecture Notes

Introduction to Global Warming

• Global warming is evident through the increase in extreme weather events.
• Understanding basics is crucial for finding solutions to climate change.

Key Topics Covered

• What is Global Warming?
• Causes of Global Warming
• Link to Extreme Weather
• Other Effects of Global Warming
• U.S. Contribution to Global Warming
• U.S. Efforts to Prevent Global Warming
• Individual Impact

What is Global Warming?

• Since the Industrial Revolution, global temperature increased by over 1°C (2°F).
• Average increase from 1850-1980: 0.07°C per decade.
• Increase since 1981: 0.2°C per decade.
• Paris Agreement (2015): Aim to limit warming to 1.5°C.

Causes of Global Warming

• Driven by carbon dioxide (CO2) and greenhouse gases trapping heat.
• Human activities, especially fossil fuel burning, are primary contributors.
• U.S. is a major emitter from transportation, electricity, and industry.
• Goal: Net zero emissions by 2050.

Link to Extreme Weather

• Warmer atmosphere holds more water, altering weather patterns.
• Leads to severe rainfall, intense droughts, and heatwaves.
• Warmer oceans fuel stronger tropical storms.
• Increase in billion-dollar weather disasters.

Other Effects of Global Warming

• Impacts health, economy, and lifestyle.
• Increase in heat stress, allergies, asthma, and infectious diseases.
• Environmental racism exacerbates inequalities.

U.S. Contribution to Global Warming

• U.S. is the second largest emitter of CO2, despite being 4% of global population.
• Significant historical contributor to global emissions.

U.S. Efforts to Prevent Global Warming

• Past: Withdrawal from Paris Agreement under Trump administration.
• Current: Biden administration focusing on clean energy with measures like the Inflation Reduction Act.
• Local Efforts: Cities and states making strides independently.
• Industry Role: Innovation in clean energy and efficiency.

Individual Impact

• Personal actions can contribute to climate change mitigation.
• Examples: Energy conservation, choosing energy-efficient appliances, and using public transportation.
• Advocating for climate-friendly policies.

Conclusion

• Large-scale and individual actions are both crucial to combat global warming.
• Movements and policies are pivotal for equitable climate action.