geography essay about global warming

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

Global Warming Essay in English 250 Words for Students

• Updated on  
• Oct 25, 2024

Writing an essay on global warming is essential for understanding one of the most pressing global challenges of our time. Essays are vital to academic learning and are frequently included in exams like SAT, UPSC, IELTS, and TOEFL. They help students articulate thoughts clearly and analyze societal and environmental issues. Global warming, as a topic, is of critical importance because it addresses concerns that have long-term consequences for ecosystems, weather patterns, and human life. In this article, we’ll explore the causes, effects, and solutions to global warming and offer tips on how to write an effective essay on global warming. This guide gives students insights into the topic, helping them engage in meaningful discussions on this global issue.

This Blog Includes:

Short essay on global warming and climate change, what are the causes of global warming, how global warming affects weather patterns and seasonal changes worldwide, solutions for global warming, effects of global warming, essay on global warming in 100 – 150 words, global warming essay in 250 words, essay on global warming in 500 words, essay on global warming upsc, climate change and global warming essay, tips to write an essay on global warming, faqs on global warming.

Since the industrial and scientific revolutions, Earth’s resources have been gradually depleted. Furthermore, the start of the world’s population exponential expansion is particularly hard on the environment. Simply put, as the population’s need for consumption grows, so does the use of natural resources , as well as the waste generated by that consumption.

Climate change has been one of the most significant long-term consequences of this. Climate change is more than just the rise or fall of global temperatures; it also affects rain cycles, wind patterns, cyclone frequencies, sea levels, and other factors. It has an impact on all major life groupings on the planet.

Also Read: Essay on Yoga Day

What is Global Warming?

Before writing an Essay on Global Warming, we must understand global warming. It is the unusually rapid increase in Earth’s average surface temperature over the past century, primarily due to the greenhouse gases released by people burning fossil fuels . The greenhouse gases include methane, nitrous oxide, ozone, carbon dioxide, water vapor, and chlorofluorocarbons. The weather prediction has been becoming more complex with every passing year, with seasons more indistinguishable, and the general temperatures hotter.

The number of hurricanes, cyclones, droughts, floods, etc., has risen steadily since the onset of the 21st century. The supervillain behind all these changes is Global Warming. The name is quite self-explanatory; it means the rise in the temperature of the Earth.

When writing an essay on global warming, knowing what causes it is important. Understanding these causes will help you write better and give useful suggestions for reducing global warming. According to recent studies, many scientists believe the following are the primary four causes of global warming:

• Deforestation 
• Greenhouse emissions
• Carbon emissions per capita

Extreme global warming is causing natural disasters , which can be seen everywhere. One of the causes of global warming is the extreme release of greenhouse gases that become trapped on the earth’s surface, causing the temperature to rise. Similarly, volcanoes contribute to global warming by spewing excessive CO 2 into the atmosphere.

The increase in population is one of the major causes of Global Warming. This increase in population also leads to increased air pollution . Automobiles emit a lot of CO 2 , which remains in the atmosphere. This increase in population is also causing deforestation, which contributes to global warming.

The earth’s surface emits energy into the atmosphere through heat, keeping the balance with the incoming energy. Global warming depletes the ozone layer, bringing about the end of the world. There is a clear indication that increased global warming will result in the extinction of all life on Earth’s surface.

Global warming significantly alters natural weather patterns, leading to unpredictable seasons and extreme weather events. Higher global temperatures contribute to severe storms, prolonged droughts, and increased frequency of wildfires. Understanding these shifts and their impact on agriculture, water supplies, and human health underscores the need for climate change mitigation strategies.

Why Urgent Action on Global Warming Is Essential for Environmental Stability

Addressing global warming is crucial to maintaining ecological balance and preventing further harm to Earth’s climate. Without action, rising temperatures lead to severe consequences such as more natural disasters, increased droughts, and displaced wildlife. Immediate steps toward sustainable energy, conservation, and pollution control can prevent irreversible damage and promote a healthier planet.

Global warming is a serious challenge, but we can slow its impact and protect the planet with collective efforts and effective strategies. Here are some key solutions to address the global warming issue, which you can mention while writing an essay on global warming.

1. Community Efforts & Activism

• Activism and community involvement are crucial to slowing global warming.
• Governments must develop concrete plans and step-by-step programs to prevent further environmental harm.

2. Collaboration Across All Levels

• Individuals, communities, and governments must work together to find solutions.
• Key focus areas include pollution control, managing population growth, and sustainable use of natural resources.

3. Reduce Plastic Use

• Plastic production is a major contributor to global warming, and recycling takes years.
• Reducing plastic consumption can significantly lower emissions.

4. Combat Deforestation

• Planting more trees restores green spaces and helps control global warming.
• Deforestation must be minimized to maintain ecological balance.

5. Regulate Industrialization

• Industries should be restricted from operating in green zones to protect ecosystems.
• Clear rules are needed to ensure industrial activities do not harm plants or wildlife.

Also Read: Essay on Pollution

Global warming has wide-ranging consequences that impact the environment, wildlife, and human life. Here are some key effects to understand and mention in your essay on global warming, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.

• Misinformation and Political Influence : Some try to deny global warming for political gain, but it is crucial to promote accurate information.
• Melting Glaciers and Arctic Shrinkage : Rapid glacier retreat and shrinking Arctic ice are clear signs of climate change.
• Rising Sea Levels and Flooding : Sea-level rise is causing floods in low-lying regions, endangering coastal communities.
• Extreme Weather Events : Global warming triggers severe weather, including heavy rains, extreme temperatures, wildfires, and storms.
• Threats to Marine Life and Coral Reefs : Many marine species face extinction due to warming oceans, and coral reefs are also at risk of disappearing soon.
• Impact on Biodiversity and Humans : The extinction of species will increase, disrupting ecosystems. Furthermore, humans will face more environmental challenges and natural disasters in the years ahead.

Sample Essays on Global Warming

These sample essays on global warming explore its causes, impacts, and potential solutions. We offer essays on global warming in various lengths, including 100, 150, 250, and 500 words. Take a look!

Global Warming is caused by increased carbon dioxide levels in the earth’s atmosphere. It is a result of human activities that have been causing harm to our environment for the past few centuries. Global Warming can’t be ignored, and steps must be taken to tackle the situation globally. The average temperature is constantly rising by 1.5 degrees Celsius over the last few years.

The best method to prevent future damage to the earth is cutting down more forests should be banned, and Afforestation should be encouraged. Start by planting trees near your homes and offices, participate in events, and teach the importance of planting trees. It is impossible to undo the damage, but it is possible to stop further harm.

Over a long period, it is observed that the temperature of the earth is increasing. This affected wildlife, animals, humans, and every living organism. Glaciers have been melting, and many countries have started water shortages, flooding, and erosion and all this is because of global warming. 

No one can be blamed for global warming except for humans. Human activities such as gases released from power plants, transportation, and deforestation have increased gases such as carbon dioxide, CFCs, and other pollutants in the earth’s atmosphere. The main question is how to control the current situation and build a better world for future generations. It starts with little steps by every individual. 

Start using cloth bags made from sustainable materials for all shopping purposes, instead of using high-watt lights, use energy-efficient bulbs, switch off the electricity, don’t waste water, abolish deforestation and encourage planting more trees. Shift energy from petroleum or other fossil fuels to wind and solar energy. Instead of throwing out the old clothes donate them to someone so that it is recycled. 

Donate old books; don’t waste paper.  Above all, spread awareness about global warming. Every little thing a person does towards saving the earth will contribute in big or small amounts. We must learn that 1% effort is better than no effort. Pledge to take care of Mother Nature and speak up about global warming.

Also Read: Concept of Sustainable Development

Global warming isn’t a prediction, and it is happening! In the most simple terms, a person denying it or unaware of it is complicit. Do we have another planet to live on? Unfortunately, we have been bestowed with this one planet only that can sustain life, yet over the years, we have turned a blind eye to the plight it is in. Global warming is not an abstract concept but a global phenomenon occurring ever so slowly, even now. Global Warming occurs every minute, resulting in a gradual increase in the Earth’s overall climate. Brought about by greenhouse gases that trap the solar radiation in the atmosphere, global warming can change the entire map of the earth, displacing areas, flooding many countries, and destroying multiple lifeforms. Extreme weather is a direct consequence of global warming, but it is not an exhaustive consequence. There are virtually limitless effects of global warming which are all harmful to life on earth. The sea level is increasing by 0.12 inches per year worldwide. This is happening because of the melting of polar ice caps because of global warming. This has increased the frequency of floods in many lowland areas and has caused damage to coral reefs. The Arctic is one of the worst-hit areas affected by global warming. Air quality has been adversely affected, and the acidity of the seawater has also increased, causing severe damage to marine life forms. Severe natural disasters are brought about by global warming which has had dire effects on life and property. As long as mankind produces greenhouse gases, global warming will continue to accelerate. The consequences are felt at a much smaller scale which will increase to become drastic shortly. The power to save the day lies in the hands of humans, who need to seize the day. Energy consumption should be reduced on an individual basis. Fuel-efficient cars and other electronics should be encouraged to reduce the wastage of energy sources. This will also improve air quality and reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Global warming is an evil that can only be defeated when fought together. It is better late than never. If we all take steps today, we will have a much brighter future tomorrow. Global warming is the bane of our existence, and various policies have come up worldwide to fight it, but that is not enough. The actual difference is made when we work individually to fight it. Understanding its import now is crucial before it becomes an irrevocable mistake. Exterminating global warming is of utmost importance, and we are as responsible for it as the next.  

Always hear about global warming everywhere, but do we know what it is? The evil of the worst form, global warming, is a phenomenon that can affect life more fatally. Global warming refers to the increase in the earth’s temperature as a result of various human activities. The planet is gradually getting hotter and threatening the existence of lifeforms on it. Despite being relentlessly studied and researched, global warming for the majority of the population remains an abstract concept of science. It is this concept that, over the years, has culminated in making global warming a stark reality and not a concept covered in books. Global warming is not caused by one sole reason that can be curbed. Multifarious factors cause global warming, most of which are a part of an individual’s daily existence. Burning of fuels for cooking, in vehicles, and for other conventional uses, a large amount of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane, amongst many others, is produced, which accelerates global warming. Rampant deforestation also results in global warming as lesser green cover results in an increased presence of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which is a greenhouse gas.  Finding a solution to global warming is of immediate importance. Global warming is a phenomenon that has to be fought unitedly. Planting more trees can be the first step that can be taken toward warding off the severe consequences of global warming. Increasing the green cover will result in regulating the carbon cycle. There should be a shift from using nonrenewable energy to  renewable energy,  s uch as wind or solar energy, which causes less pollution and thereby hinders the acceleration of global warming. Reducing energy needs at an individual level and not wasting energy in any form is the most important step to be taken against global warming. The warning bells are tolling to awaken us from the deep slumber of complacency we have slipped into. Humans can fight against nature, and it is high time we acknowledged that. With all our scientific progress and technological inventions, fighting off the negative effects of global warming is implausible. We have to remember that we do not inherit the earth from our ancestors but borrow it from our future generations and the responsibility lies on our shoulders to bequeath them a healthy planet for life to exist. 

Also Read: Essay on Disaster Management

Global Warming and Climate Change are two sides of the same coin. Both are interrelated with each other and are two issues of major concern worldwide. Greenhouse gases released, such as carbon dioxide, CFCs, and other pollutants in the earth’s atmosphere, cause Global Warming, which leads to climate change. Black holes have started to form in the ozone layer that protects the earth from harmful ultraviolet rays. 

Human activities have created climate change and global warming. Industrial waste and fumes are the major contributors to global warming. 

Another factor affecting is the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and also one of the reasons for climate change.  Global warming has resulted in shrinking mountain glaciers in Antarctica, Greenland, and the Arctic and causing climate change. Switching from the use of fossil fuels to energy sources like wind and solar. 

When buying any electronic appliance, buy the best quality with energy savings stars. Don’t waste water, and encourage rainwater harvesting in your community. 

Writing an effective essay on Global Warming requires skills that few people possess, and even fewer know how to implement. While writing an essay on global warming can be a challenging and sometimes daunting task, there are key strategies that can help you draft a successful piece. These include focusing on the structure of the essay, planning it carefully, and emphasizing important details.

Here are some pointers to help you write essays with better structure and thoughtfulness, ensuring your message resonates with your readers:

• Prepare an outline for the essay on global warming to ensure continuity and relevance and no break in the structure of the essay
• Decide on a thesis statement that will form the basis of your essay. It will be the point of your essay and help readers understand your contention
• Follow the structure of an introduction, a detailed body, followed by a conclusion so that the readers can comprehend the essay in a particular manner without any dissonance.
• Make your beginning catchy and include solutions in your conclusion to make the essay insightful and lucrative to read
• Reread before putting it out and add your flair to the essay to make it more personal and thereby unique and intriguing for readers 

Ans. Both natural and man-made factors contribute to global warming. The natural one also contains methane gas, volcanic eruptions, and greenhouse gases. Deforestation, mining, livestock raising, burning fossil fuels, and other man-made causes are next.

Ans. The government and the general public can work together to stop global warming. Trees must be planted more often, and deforestation must be prohibited. Auto usage needs to be curbed, and recycling needs to be promoted.

Ans. Switching to renewable energy sources , adopting sustainable farming, transportation, and energy methods, and conserving water and other natural resources.

Ans: Essay on Global Warming: A Critical Challenge Global warming is a significant environmental issue caused primarily by the rising levels of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, largely due to human activities such as deforestation, the burning of fossil fuels and industrial processes. Over the past few decades, the average global temperature has increased by approximately 1.5 degrees Celsius, resulting in severe consequences for ecosystems and weather patterns worldwide. To combat global warming, immediate action is necessary. One effective strategy is to halt deforestation and promote afforestation. Planting trees in our communities can make a substantial difference, as trees absorb carbon dioxide and provide essential oxygen. Individuals can contribute by participating in local tree-planting initiatives and raising awareness about the importance of a healthy environment. While we cannot reverse the damage already done, we have the power to prevent further harm and protect our planet for future generations.

Ans: Global Warming: An Urgent Concern Global warming is a critical issue characterized by the gradual increase in Earth’s average temperature due to human-induced emissions of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide. These emissions primarily stem from activities like burning fossil fuels, industrial production, and deforestation. As a result, we are witnessing alarming effects, including melting ice caps, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events. To address global warming, urgent action is required. Transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, can significantly reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, promoting energy efficiency in our daily lives can contribute to this effort. By raising awareness and fostering community initiatives, we can encourage sustainable practices that protect our planet. Collective action today can pave the way for a healthier environment for future generations.

Ans: Global warming means the long-term increase in Earth’s average temperature. This rise is mainly caused by human activities that release greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere. Key sources of these emissions include burning fossil fuels for energy, cutting down forests, and industrial processes. As a result, we are seeing serious problems like rising sea levels, more extreme weather events, and harm to wildlife. The effects of global warming are already noticeable. Many places face droughts, floods, and heatwaves. To tackle this urgent issue, we need a variety of solutions. Switching to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power can significantly lower emissions. Additionally, using energy more efficiently, planting trees, and practicing sustainable farming can help too. By increasing awareness and working together, we can fight against global warming and build a healthier world for future generations.

Ans – Global warming alters habitats, forcing species to migrate or adapt. Rapid temperature changes threaten species that cannot adapt quickly, leading to reduced biodiversity and the loss of unique ecosystems.

Ans – Global warming increases the risk of heat-related illnesses, respiratory issues from pollution, and diseases spread by insects. Extreme weather events also strain healthcare systems, affecting communities’ access to medical care.

Ans. While it cannot be entirely reversed, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adopting sustainable practices can slow its progression. Reforestation, renewable energy, and conservation efforts are critical in mitigating its effects.

Ans. Renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydro produce electricity without emitting greenhouse gases. Switching to renewables reduces dependence on fossil fuels, significantly lowering emissions that contribute to global warming.

Ans. Global warming causes glaciers and polar ice caps to melt, adding water to the oceans and causing sea levels to rise. Higher sea levels increase the risk of coastal flooding, impacting ecosystems and human settlements.

Relevant Blogs

For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay writing page and follow Leverage Edu.

Digvijay Singh

Having 2+ years of experience in educational content writing, withholding a Bachelor's in Physical Education and Sports Science and a strong interest in writing educational content for students enrolled in domestic and foreign study abroad programmes. I believe in offering a distinct viewpoint to the table, to help students deal with the complexities of both domestic and foreign educational systems. Through engaging storytelling and insightful analysis, I aim to inspire my readers to embark on their educational journeys, whether abroad or at home, and to make the most of every learning opportunity that comes their way.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

This was really a good essay on global warming… There has been used many unic words..and I really liked it!!!Seriously I had been looking for a essay about Global warming just like this…

Thank you for the comment!

I want to learn how to write essay writing so I joined this page.This page is very useful for everyone.

Hi, we are glad that we could help you to write essays. We have a beginner’s guide to write essays ( https://leverageedu.com/blog/essay-writing/ ) and we think this might help you.

It is not good , to have global warming in our earth .So we all have to afforestation program on all the world.

thank you so much

Very educative , helpful and it is really going to strength my English knowledge to structure my essay in future

Thank you for the comment, please follow our newsletter to get more insights on studying abroad and exams!

Global warming is the increase in 𝓽𝓱𝓮 ᴀᴠᴇʀᴀɢᴇ ᴛᴇᴍᴘᴇʀᴀᴛᴜʀᴇs ᴏғ ᴇᴀʀᴛʜ🌎 ᴀᴛᴍᴏsᴘʜᴇʀᴇ

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

January 2025

September 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

Essay on Global Warming – Causes and Solutions

500+ words essay on global warming.

Global Warming is a term almost everyone is familiar with. But, its meaning is still not clear to most of us. So, Global warming refers to the gradual rise in the overall temperature of the atmosphere of the Earth. There are various activities taking place which have been increasing the temperature gradually. Global warming is melting our ice glaciers rapidly. This is extremely harmful to the earth as well as humans. It is quite challenging to control global warming; however, it is not unmanageable. The first step in solving any problem is identifying the cause of the problem. Therefore, we need to first understand the causes of global warming that will help us proceed further in solving it. In this essay on Global Warming, we will see the causes and solutions of Global Warming.

Causes of Global Warming

Global warming has become a grave problem which needs undivided attention. It is not happening because of a single cause but several causes. These causes are both natural as well as manmade. The natural causes include the release of greenhouses gases which are not able to escape from earth, causing the temperature to increase.

Get English Important Questions here

Further, volcanic eruptions are also responsible for global warming. That is to say, these eruptions release tons of carbon dioxide which contributes to global warming. Similarly, methane is also one big issue responsible for global warming.

So, when one of the biggest sources of absorption of carbon dioxide will only disappear, there will be nothing left to regulate the gas. Thus, it will result in global warming. Steps must be taken immediately to stop global warming and make the earth better again.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Global Warming Solutions

As stated earlier, it might be challenging but it is not entirely impossible. Global warming can be stopped when combined efforts are put in. For that, individuals and governments, both have to take steps towards achieving it. We must begin with the reduction of greenhouse gas.

Furthermore, they need to monitor the consumption of gasoline. Switch to a hybrid car and reduce the release of carbon dioxide. Moreover, citizens can choose public transport or carpool together. Subsequently, recycling must also be encouraged.

Read Global Warming Speech here

For instance, when you go shopping, carry your own cloth bag. Another step you can take is to limit the use of electricity which will prevent the release of carbon dioxide. On the government’s part, they must regulate industrial waste and ban them from emitting harmful gases in the air. Deforestation must be stopped immediately and planting of trees must be encouraged.

In short, all of us must realize the fact that our earth is not well. It needs to treatment and we can help it heal. The present generation must take up the responsibility of stopping global warming in order to prevent the suffering of future generations. Therefore, every little step, no matter how small carries a lot of weight and is quite significant in stopping global warming.

हिंदी में ग्लोबल वार्मिंग पर निबंध यहाँ पढ़ें

FAQs on Global Warming

Q.1 List the causes of Global Warming.

A.1 There are various causes of global warming both natural and manmade. The natural one includes a greenhouse gas, volcanic eruption, methane gas and more. Next up, manmade causes are deforestation, mining, cattle rearing, fossil fuel burning and more.

Q.2 How can one stop Global Warming?

A.2 Global warming can be stopped by a joint effort by the individuals and the government. Deforestation must be banned and trees should be planted more. The use of automobiles must be limited and recycling must be encouraged.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

• Travelling Essay
• Picnic Essay
• Our Country Essay
• My Parents Essay
• Essay on Favourite Personality
• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
• Essay on Knowledge is Power
• Essay on Gurpurab
• Essay on My Favourite Season
• Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Global Warming — Argumentative Essay On Global Warming

Argumentative Essay on Global Warming

• Categories: Climate Change Environmental Issues Global Warming

About this sample

Words: 879 |

Published: Mar 5, 2024

Words: 879 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below:

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof. Kifaru

Verified writer

• Expert in: Environment

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

3 pages / 1370 words

1 pages / 431 words

1 pages / 441 words

2 pages / 942 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Global Warming

Oceans play a very important role in moderating climate change by helping in the regulation of both heat and carbon dioxide levels. It is therefore very important to understand the interrelationship between the oceans and [...]

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, with far-reaching consequences for the environment, economies, and societies worldwide. As the global community grapples with the devastating impacts of a [...]

We live in a world with a ton of environmental challenges, and finding energy sources that won't mess up our planet is a big deal. One cool option that's been in the spotlight lately is solar energy. By harnessing sunlight [...]

Global warming is a pressing issue that affects us all, yet many people still remain unaware of the severity of its consequences. Picture this: rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and dwindling wildlife populations. These [...]

It is a melancholy object to those who have been unfortunate enough to inhabit this once great planet. These individuals, instead of searching for cooler, healthier planets, are forced to employ all of their resources and [...]

The short story “Diary of an Interesting Year” by Helen Simpson is delivered to readers in the form of a diary entries. It is the year 2040, and the main character, a 30-year-old women, writes entries regarding her decrepit [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

ENCYCLOPEDIC ENTRY

Global warming.

The causes, effects, and complexities of global warming are important to understand so that we can fight for the health of our planet.

Earth Science, Climatology

Tennessee Power Plant

Ash spews from a coal-fueled power plant in New Johnsonville, Tennessee, United States.

Photograph by Emory Kristof/ National Geographic

Learning materials

Upcoming event.

• Explorer Classroom: Photographing the Frozen Frontier with Esther Horvath | December 5

Global warming refers to the increase in the planet’s overall average temperature in recent decades. Natural processes have always affected Earth’s temperature and climate, but more recently, the planet’s temperature and climate have changed at a higher pace than nature alone can explain. These rapid changes are due to human activities and the widespread use of fossil fuels for energy.

Fossil fuels include coal, oil and natural gas. Burning fossil fuels causes what is known as the “ greenhouse effect ” in Earth’s atmosphere. The greenhouse effect happens when the sun’s rays penetrate the atmosphere , and the Earth’s surface reflects that heat. Some of the gasses in the atmosphere then trap heat over Earth. Gasses emitted by the burning of fossil fuels are very good at trapping heat and preventing it from leaving the atmosphere. These greenhouse gasses are carbon dioxide , methane , nitrous oxide , chlorofluorocarbons and water vapor . The excess heat in the atmosphere has caused the planet’s average global temperature to rise over time, otherwise known as global warming.

The Industrial Revolution , beginning in the mid-18th century, led to the start of an anthropogenic (human-caused) rise in greenhouse gas emissions from Europe and the United States. The invention of the coal-fired steam engine introduced coal as a major source of energy. Soon it was heating homes and fueling machines in factories.

Since that time, the burning of fossil fuels has steadily increased. Today, many countries around the world use fossil fuels to generate energy for electricity, heat and transportation. Emissions of greenhouse gasses have skyrocketed in the last 100 years, and especially since the 1980s. This has accelerated the rise in Earth’s temperature.

Global warming has presented humans with another issue: climate change. People often use the terms “global warming” and “climate change” interchangeably, but they are different. Global warming refers to Earth’s rising average temperature, while climate change refers to changes in weather patterns and growing seasons around the world. Global warming causes climate change, which poses a serious threat to life on Earth.

Humans are feeling the impact of global warming around the world as climate change brings intense droughts, wildfires and extreme storms with heavier rainfall. Higher temperatures are altering ecosystems , forcing animals to migrate to cooler places to survive. Scientists predict that, if nothing is done to lower global temperatures, many species will go extinct.

The ocean is also warming, and glaciers , ice caps and ice sheets are melting. This is causing sea levels to rise, creating flooding problems for many people who live on islands and in coastal communities.

Corals have been a symbol of the consequences of a warmer ocean. Many coral reefs—home to thousands of species of fish and other organisms—are dying. National Geographic Explorer Shireen Rahimi is an underwater storyteller who focuses her lens on the impact of global warming on tropical coral reefs. Her images capture humans’ relationships to the changing seas in the South Pacific, the Coral Triangle, and the Caribbean. Rahimi is dedicated to telling personal stories that encourage environmental action.

Countries around the world are trying to lower greenhouse gas emissions to slow global warming. In 2015, nearly 200 countries signed the Paris Agreement at a United Nations Climate Change conference. The international treaty tasks each country with lowering greenhouse gas emissions. The goal is to slow the pace of global warming and prevent Earth’s temperature from rising 2°C (3.6°F) above pre-industrial temperatures.

Media Credits

The audio, illustrations, photos, and videos are credited beneath the media asset, except for promotional images, which generally link to another page that contains the media credit. The Rights Holder for media is the person or group credited.

Last Updated

October 21, 2024

User Permissions

For information on user permissions, please read our Terms of Service. If you have questions about how to cite anything on our website in your project or classroom presentation, please contact your teacher. They will best know the preferred format. When you reach out to them, you will need the page title, URL, and the date you accessed the resource.

If a media asset is downloadable, a download button appears in the corner of the media viewer. If no button appears, you cannot download or save the media.

Text on this page is printable and can be used according to our Terms of Service .

Interactives

Any interactives on this page can only be played while you are visiting our website. You cannot download interactives.

Related Resources

• ENVIRONMENT

What is global warming, explained

The planet is heating up—and fast.

Glaciers are melting , sea levels are rising, cloud forests are dying , and wildlife is scrambling to keep pace. It has become clear that humans have caused most of the past century's warming by releasing heat-trapping gases as we power our modern lives. Called greenhouse gases, their levels are higher now than at any time in the last 800,000 years .

We often call the result global warming, but it is causing a set of changes to the Earth's climate, or long-term weather patterns, that varies from place to place. While many people think of global warming and climate change as synonyms , scientists use “climate change” when describing the complex shifts now affecting our planet’s weather and climate systems—in part because some areas actually get cooler in the short term.

Climate change encompasses not only rising average temperatures but also extreme weather events , shifting wildlife populations and habitats, rising seas , and a range of other impacts. All of those changes are emerging as humans continue to add heat-trapping greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, changing the rhythms of climate that all living things have come to rely on.

What will we do—what can we do—to slow this human-caused warming? How will we cope with the changes we've already set into motion? While we struggle to figure it all out, the fate of the Earth as we know it—coasts, forests, farms, and snow-capped mountains—hangs in the balance.

Understanding the greenhouse effect

The "greenhouse effect" is the warming that happens when certain gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat . These gases let in light but keep heat from escaping, like the glass walls of a greenhouse, hence the name.

Sunlight shines onto the Earth's surface, where the energy is absorbed and then radiate back into the atmosphere as heat. In the atmosphere, greenhouse gas molecules trap some of the heat, and the rest escapes into space. The more greenhouse gases concentrate in the atmosphere, the more heat gets locked up in the molecules.

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Scientists have known about the greenhouse effect since 1824, when Joseph Fourier calculated that the Earth would be much colder if it had no atmosphere. This natural greenhouse effect is what keeps the Earth's climate livable. Without it, the Earth's surface would be an average of about 60 degrees Fahrenheit (33 degrees Celsius) cooler.

A polar bear stands sentinel on Rudolf Island in Russia’s Franz Josef Land archipelago, where the perennial ice is melting.

In 1895, the Swedish chemist Svante Arrhenius discovered that humans could enhance the greenhouse effect by making carbon dioxide , a greenhouse gas. He kicked off 100 years of climate research that has given us a sophisticated understanding of global warming.

Levels of greenhouse gases have gone up and down over the Earth's history, but they had been fairly constant for the past few thousand years. Global average temperatures had also stayed fairly constant over that time— until the past 150 years . Through the burning of fossil fuels and other activities that have emitted large amounts of greenhouse gases, particularly over the past few decades, humans are now enhancing the greenhouse effect and warming Earth significantly, and in ways that promise many effects , scientists warn.

Aren't temperature changes natural?

Human activity isn't the only factor that affects Earth's climate. Volcanic eruptions and variations in solar radiation from sunspots, solar wind, and the Earth's position relative to the sun also play a role. So do large-scale weather patterns such as El Niño .

You May Also Like

How global warming is disrupting life on Earth

Air pollution, explained

These photos show what happens to coral reefs in a warming world

But climate models that scientists use to monitor Earth’s temperatures take those factors into account. Changes in solar radiation levels as well as minute particles suspended in the atmosphere from volcanic eruptions , for example, have contributed only about two percent to the recent warming effect. The balance comes from greenhouse gases and other human-caused factors, such as land use change .

The short timescale of this recent warming is singular as well. Volcanic eruptions , for example, emit particles that temporarily cool the Earth's surface. But their effect lasts just a few years. Events like El Niño also work on fairly short and predictable cycles. On the other hand, the types of global temperature fluctuations that have contributed to ice ages occur on a cycle of hundreds of thousands of years.

For thousands of years now, emissions of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere have been balanced out by greenhouse gases that are naturally absorbed. As a result, greenhouse gas concentrations and temperatures have been fairly stable, which has allowed human civilization to flourish within a consistent climate.

Greenland is covered with a vast amount of ice—but the ice is melting four times faster than thought, suggesting that Greenland may be approaching a dangerous tipping point, with implications for global sea-level rise.

Now, humans have increased the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere by more than a third since the Industrial Revolution. Changes that have historically taken thousands of years are now happening over the course of decades .

Why does this matter?

The rapid rise in greenhouse gases is a problem because it’s changing the climate faster than some living things can adapt to. Also, a new and more unpredictable climate poses unique challenges to all life.

Historically, Earth's climate has regularly shifted between temperatures like those we see today and temperatures cold enough to cover much of North America and Europe with ice. The difference between average global temperatures today and during those ice ages is only about 9 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius), and the swings have tended to happen slowly, over hundreds of thousands of years.

But with concentrations of greenhouse gases rising, Earth's remaining ice sheets such as Greenland and Antarctica are starting to melt too . That extra water could raise sea levels significantly, and quickly. By 2050, sea levels are predicted to rise between one and 2.3 feet as glaciers melt.

As the mercury rises, the climate can change in unexpected ways. In addition to sea levels rising, weather can become more extreme . This means more intense major storms, more rain followed by longer and drier droughts—a challenge for growing crops—changes in the ranges in which plants and animals can live, and loss of water supplies that have historically come from glaciers.

Related Topics

• ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
• CLIMATE CHANGE

What does a melting glacier sound like? 'Gunshots.'

The Gulf of Maine is warming fast. What does that mean for lobsters—and everything else?

See what a year looks like in the fastest-warming place on Earth

Sea levels are rising at an extraordinary pace. Here's what to know.

What is the ozone layer, and why does it matter?

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved