The Dawn of the Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution, a period of rapid industrial growth and innovation, began in the late 18th century. It transformed societies from agrarian economies to industrial powerhouses. * Key Innovations:
- Iron production techniques
The Rise of Fossil Fuels
As industries expanded, the demand for energy sources surged. Fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, became the primary energy sources due to their abundance and high energy content.
In 1896, Swedish scientist Svante Arrhenius was one of the first to propose that CO2 emissions could lead to global warming. His work laid the foundation for future climate research. Arrhenius’s calculations suggested that doubling CO2 levels could significantly increase Earth’s temperature. Significant Events and Developments The mid-20th century saw a surge in awareness about environmental issues. In 1958, Charles David Keeling started measuring atmospheric CO2 at Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii. His data showed a steady increase in CO2 levels, known today as the “Keeling Curve”. This evidence was crucial in understanding human impact on climate. The first Earth Day in 1970 marked a pivotal moment for environmental activism. It raised public awareness about pollution and its effects on climate change. Governments began to take action by implementing policies aimed at reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices.
The Dawn of Climate Advocacy: From Hansen to Thunberg
The fight against climate change has been a long and arduous journey, marked by pivotal moments and influential figures. Among these, James Hansen and Greta Thunberg stand out as two of the most prominent advocates, each playing a crucial role in raising awareness and pushing for action.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has identified several mitigation strategies, including renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency improvements, and carbon capture and storage (CCS). ## The Kyoto Protocol: A Historical Perspective The Kyoto Protocol, adopted in 1997, marked a significant milestone in international climate policy.
The Greenhouse Gas Emissions Factor
Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, are the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, leading to global warming. * Coal, oil, and natural gas are the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
