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This article presents compelling reasons supporting the notion that human activities are the primary cause of global warming. It highlights the unprecedented correlation between human emissions of greenhouse gases, rising atmospheric temperatures, and population growth. Computer simulations reinforce that only human-induced emissions can explain the current temperature rise. Additionally, the significant impact of coal-fired power plants on CO2 emissions is discussed, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable energy practices to mitigate climate change.
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Some Reasons We Know Humans are the Main Cause • There is a good correlation between the rise in human-caused emissions of greenhouse gases, the rise in atmospheric greenhouse gases, and the rise in temperature. The rate of increase in each is unprecedented. • There is a good correlation between the growth in the human population and the rise in greenhouse gases and temperature. • Computer simulations indicate that only human-caused emissions of greenhouse gases can cause the observed rise in temperature of the atmosphere and other Earth systems (Oceans, Continents and Ice). • No other natural causes can account for the present rapid rise in temperature and CO2. The present rate of CO2 increase is about 20,000 faster than natural rates. • Carbon isotopes due to burning fossil fuels are the main constituent of the increased CO2 concentration (falling 13C to 12C ratio).
Coal:The Worst CO2 Emitter • One mid-sized coal-fired power plant (500-megawatts) emits about 3.5 million tons of CO2 annually. • This is equivalent to 625,000 additional cars on the road traveling 12,000 miles per year. • In the U.S. utility companies have proposed building 185 new coal-fired power plants (10 in operation, 32 under construction, and 90 in early development). • China is building, on average, 2 coal-fired power plants each week.
Radiative Forcing from Various Causes(Black Carbon is not included and the sunlight-reflecting potential of Aerosols may be overestimated1)
Temperature, CO2 Concentrations and Human- Caused Carbon Emissions
Only Human-caused Greenhouse Gas Emissions Can Account for Global Warming • The black line is the observed temperature rise. • The orange area is computer simulations of all emissions, including human. • The blue area is computer simulations of only natural emissions and the increase in solar activity.