The-Looming-Threat-Understanding-Global-Warming.pptx.pptx

I am Divyam Dhakal, a student deeply concerned about our planet’s future. In this presentation, I aim to raise awareness about global warming — its causes, effects, and how we can all take steps toward a more sustainable world.

1. The Looming Threat: Understanding Global Warming An essential presentation on the causes, impacts, and solutions to the climate crisis.

2. What Exactly is Global Warming? The Basics Definition Global warming refers to the long-term heating of Earth’s climate system observed since the pre-industrial period (between 1850 and 1900) due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning. The Greenhouse Effect This is the process where gases in Earth's atmosphere trap heat and keep the planet warm. While natural, human activity has intensified this effect by releasing excess gases, leading to unnatural warming. Key Greenhouse Gases Carbon Dioxide ( CO2 ) Methane ( CH4 ) Nitrous Oxide ( N2O ) Fluorinated Gases Understanding the fundamental mechanisms is the first step towards effective mitigation strategies.

3. The Evidence: Undeniable Signs of a Warming Planet Scientific data provides irrefutable proof that our climate is changing at an alarming rate. 1.1°C Global average temperature increase since the late 19th century. 1/3 The fraction of global sea level rise attributable to melting glaciers and ice sheets. 95% Probability that human influence has been the dominant cause of the observed warming since the mid-20th century.

4. Human Activity: Our Role in Accelerating Climate Change The primary driver of global warming is the emission of greenhouse gases from anthropogenic sources. Enhanced Greenhouse Effect Industrial processes Manufacturing emissions and waste Deforestation & land-use Carbon release from forests Agricultural practices Methane and nitrous oxide Burning fossil fuels Energy, transport, and heat Fossil Fuel Dependency Coal, oil, and gas combustion for electricity, heat, and transport release vast amounts of CO2. Industrial Emissions Chemical and manufacturing processes contribute significant greenhouse gases, including fluorinated gases which are extremely potent. Deforestation The removal of forests eliminates crucial 'carbon sinks', reducing nature's ability to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere.

5. The Devastating Impacts: From Extreme Weather to Biodiversity Loss The consequences of a warming world are far-reaching and already impacting lives globally. 1 Extreme Weather Events Increased frequency and intensity of heatwaves, floods, droughts, and severe storms cause massive destruction and displacement. 2 Rising Sea Levels Coastal cities and low-lying islands face inundation as polar ice melts and thermal expansion occurs. 3 Ecosystem Disruption Habitat loss, ocean acidification, and shifting climate zones threaten millions of plant and animal species, accelerating biodiversity loss.

6. Global Responsibility: Who is Most Affected, and Who is Accountable? The climate crisis is a matter of environmental justice . The burdens are not equally shared. Vulnerable Communities Developing nations and indigenous populations, who have historically contributed the least to emissions, often bear the brunt of climate impacts first and most severely. Historical Emitters Industrialised nations hold the greatest historical responsibility for high emission levels and therefore must lead in mitigation efforts and financial support for adaptation. Addressing global warming requires a framework that integrates equity and differentiated responsibilities among countries, as outlined in international agreements.

7. Innovative Solutions: Technologies and Policies for a Sustainable Future Transitioning to a net-zero future requires radical innovation and coordinated international policy. Renewable Energy Scaling up solar, wind, geothermal, and hydro power to replace fossil fuels entirely. Energy Storage Developing advanced battery and grid technologies to manage the intermittency of renewables. Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS) Technologies that remove CO2 directly from industrial sources or the atmosphere. Nature-Based Solutions Reforestation, regenerative agriculture, and protecting wetlands to enhance natural carbon sequestration. Binding Policy Implementing carbon pricing, stricter emission standards, and international cooperation mechanisms.

8. Individual Action: What You Can Do to Make a Difference Collective change starts with individual responsibility and sustainable lifestyle choices. Reduce Energy Consumption Switch to renewable energy providers, improve home insulation, and use energy-efficient appliances. Rethink Diet and Waste Reduce meat consumption, support local and seasonal food, and minimise food waste. Choose Sustainable Transport Opt for walking, cycling, public transport, or electric vehicles over petrol/diesel cars.

9. Urgent Call to Action: The Time to Act is Now A Critical Decade The next ten years are crucial for limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as mandated by the Paris Agreement. Every delay dramatically increases the risk and cost. Demand Accountability Hold governments and corporations to their climate pledges and advocate for ambitious new targets. Support Innovation Invest in and champion businesses and technologies committed to sustainability. Educate and Mobilise Share knowledge and engage your community in climate action and resilience building.

10. A Brighter Future: Our Shared Vision for a Cooler Planet Achieving a sustainable future is not just about avoiding catastrophe; it is about building a better world. Cleaner Air and Water Eliminating fossil fuel use leads to dramatically improved public health outcomes. Economic Opportunity The transition creates millions of new green jobs in technology, manufacturing, and services. Restored Ecosystems A stable climate allows natural habitats and biodiversity to recover and thrive. The future we choose to create is a resilient, equitable, and flourishing world for all generations.