The Greenhouse Effect

The Carbon Cycle http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_cycle

The Greenhouse Effect Some of the major greenhouse gases to be aware of: Carbon dioxide Methane Oxides of Nitrogen

The Greenhouse Effect When light enters the atmosphere, some is absorbed and some is reflected back to space. That which is absorbed is generally absorbed as infrared or heat radiation. Some atmospheric gases have the ability to absorb and re-emit this heat rather than allowing it to return to space. They are called ‘greenhouse gases’. This is a natural process that allows us to maintain normal temperature ranges – So why does this matter now? http://www.ucar.edu/learn/1_3_1.htm

Human Impacts http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide_in_Earth's_atmosphere http://www.worldclimatereport.com/index.php/2008/12/17/recent-temperature-trends-in-context/ Today we are undergoing ‘enhanced greenhouse effect’ because of the addition of greenhouse gases caused by human impacts. Most of the addition is caused by burning of fossil fuels.

Consequences of Human Impacts Climate change is expected to have the following effects: Change in weather patterns that include more severe storms Change to biome location Change in timing of events for certain species such as germination, laying of eggs, etc. Change in species distribution with species moving into areas where they have not been seen previously. Often this includes moving to higher altitudes as well as higher latitudes This may also include extinctions of species who are unable to move

Effects in the Arctic Effects in the arctic are expected to be more severe than anywhere else on the planet. These include: Permafrost and ice melt leading to loss of habitat Increased rates of decomposition from items previously stuck in permafrost Changes in species distribution Movement of species from temperate zones

The Precautionary Principle The precautionary principle states that it must be proven that HARM WILL NOT TAKE PLACE prior to moving forward on a plan. Generally, the opposite is true in most development plans.