temperatuurgroei

Temperatuurgroei, often referred to as temperature increase or warming, describes the sustained rise in the average temperature of the Earth's climate system. This phenomenon is primarily driven by an increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which trap heat that would otherwise radiate back into space. The most significant greenhouse gas contributing to this warming is carbon dioxide, largely emitted from the burning of fossil fuels for energy, transportation, and industry. Other contributing factors include methane and nitrous oxide, often released from agricultural activities and industrial processes.

The observed temperatuurgroei has significant implications for the planet. These include melting glaciers and ice sheets, leading to rising sea levels. Changes in weather patterns are also a consequence, manifesting as more frequent and intense heatwaves, altered precipitation patterns, and an increase in extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. Ecosystems are affected by these changes, with shifts in plant and animal habitats and potential species extinction. Scientific consensus attributes the current rapid temperatuurgroei primarily to human activities, distinguishing it from natural climate variability that has occurred throughout Earth's history. Understanding and addressing temperatuurgroei is a critical global challenge.