Jul 31 2008
The majority of the world's climate scientists have concluded that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions resulting from human activities, such as transportation and electricity production, have a significant impact on the atmosphere and are having a discernible influence on global climate.
Since the dawn of the industrial age, the global economy has become increasingly dependant on the use of fossil fuels to power our businesses and our way of life. We share the growing concern that, if left unchecked, these emissions will continue to alter the atmosphere and the climate, disrupting human settlements around the globe and threatening human and natural ecosystems.
Expected Consequences
The expected consequences of greenhouse gas emissions include:
- Hotter and cooler temperatures
- General rise in sea levels, in part resulting from melting polar ice caps
- Changes in rainfall patterns
- Increased frequency and severity of storm systems such as hurricanes, windstorms and thunderstorms
- Increased frequency and severity of droughts and floods
- Loss of habitat and biodiversity
- Expanded occurrence and distribution of serious health risks and diseases
Carbon Constrained Economy
As scientists have gathered increasing levels of proof that climate change is occurring, and why, efforts to combat this problem have gained significant momentum. Around the world, citizens, corporations and individuals alike, are choosing different types of transportation and sources of electricity, and are investing in technologies that promise to reduce or sequester green house gas emissions. It is this group of "first movers" who will lead us towards a more sustainable future and be the best prepared to thrive in a global economy that is increasingly carbon constrained.
Common Greenhouse Gases
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) accounts for almost 83% of greenhouse gases and is released during the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas).
- Methane, which is essentially natural gas, is released during the decomposition of organic matter. Its heat trapping capacity is 21 times greater than CO2.
Source: BeGreen