It’s Warming Up!

World Environment Day was observed on June 5. Let’ s take a look at the harmful effects of global warming on our environment.

Global warming is indeed real and many believe its effects are already irreversible. Usually climate changes occur extremely slowly (spread over thousands of years) and therefore plants and animals get enough time to adapt themselves. But now sudden climate changes have begun affecting various ecosystems, forcing some species out of their habitat. Polar bears could be one of the first casualties as the Arctic has started shrinking at a frightening pace.

If ice sheets and glaciers continue to melt, not only will sea levels rise but the oceans will become less salty. Less salty oceans could disturb various ocean currents that affect the climate of the coastal regions. Warmer oceans could cause stronger cyclones. Also, expanded oceans would make the groundwater in the coastal areas salty and render the soil infertile.

Some areas in the world will get more rains, while some others will suffer serious droughts and heat waves. The already dry African continent may become even drier. As the glacier sin the Himalayas star t melting, major rivers in India, Nepal and China may flood for the next few decades, and once the water runs out, there could be severe famines. Many disease-producing viruses and bacteria that thrive in the warmer climate may cause frequent outbreaks of diseases.

How can you make a difference?

Here are a few simple steps to reduce global warming.

◆ Walk or use a cycle whenever possible. Use public transpor t or car pool.

◆ Always remember to switch off the fans and lights. Even if you leave your TV or computer on stand-by, they still consume up to 75 per cent of the energy when turned on.

◆ Remove mobile chargers from the socket after charging.

◆ Switch to energy-efficient light bulbs that use less energy and last longer.

◆ Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Try using less— reduce the use of disposable things. Reuse whatever you can, like plastic bags.

◆ Plant a tree and take care of it. Remember, trees are the best carbon dioxide absorbers.

◆ Request your parents to switch off the car when waiting at the traffic signal.