The 3 different lecturers went through topics pertaining to the problems and issues on global warming. Each lecturer stated their points in putting across the message of global warming. Be it informing us of the harmful effects of global warming or explaining to us what factors are restricting countries in a fight against global warming. The lecturers went through their points in detail.
The first lecturer touched on the topics on the effects of carbon dioxide emission and how it can contribute to global warming. Carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring balanced in the air we breathe. It is a fixed amount of 0.033%. However, as we progressed and countries continue to develop, the amount of waste and carbon dioxide released by factories, cars, air cons adds up and in recent years, carbon dioxide composition in the air has been increasing steadily.
Carbon dioxide traps heat in the atmosphere and heats up the temperature of the earth. When the temperature of the earth increases, melting of the ice caps will occur and eventually, floods will occur in many parts of the world. The total change in climate will not only create floods, but also droughts. Temperature rise and drops in many parts of the world will also occur and affect the overall cycle of the earth. Examples such as extinction of animals, famine and diseases will spread everywhere at that time.
The lecturer pointed out how we can fight or play our part in reducing such emissions such as taking public transport, using energy saving devices, not using air cons, not buying bottled waters and even not consuming food that has been transported thousands of kilometres. This might not be the solution to the problems but it can reduce such harmful emissions in the long run if everyone were to play a part and follow as such. The lecturer also stated that in many countries, global warming might not be the top priority as many countries still face the poverty cycle and many issues such as diseases, shortage of food and education are of greater importance.
The interesting part the lecturer pointed out is how to get rid of such gases. One way is by diffusing the gases into the ocean and the other is by storing them in large sausage-shaped membranes through pipes down to the bottom of the ocean. Although both ideas are not be feasible as releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide will make the ocean more acidic and destroy marine life and the other can only contain 2.2 days worth of CO2 per membrane. However, it is interesting as we can see the efforts being put in to tackle the problem of the harmful gases.
The second lecturer showed us the use of STS to address energy(and technological) problems. He also touched on public apathy and misunderstandings, consumption, psychological resistance and environmental concerns. He pointed out how technological breakthroughs in recent times have affected the world and how it could have impacted the environment negatively.
He covered the technical challenges, economic challenges, political challenges and social/cultural challenges and concluded by showing us how STS methods can provide a useful lens to evaluate new technologies.
For the final part of the lecture, the last lecturer gave us an opening speech on greenhouse gases and what greenhouse gases comprised of. He mentioned the effects of greenhouse gases and how the global temperature has risen because of these gases. He showed us models, data’s, predictions and what human activities that caused global warming.
Several consequences of global warming have also been pointed out. The primary effects are droughts and floods, extinctions and intense storms and hurricanes. Certain areas will benefit from the warmer climate while others will suffer from melting ice. The rising of sea levels, extreme weather conditions, shifts in wildlife habitats and agricultural areas are several of them. The lecturer then touched on how we all can play a part in the fight against global warming and what governments can do to reduce emissions in their country. Several examples like taxing greenhouse gas emissions, subsidizing energy efficient and renewable use are things government in every country can look into. We can also play a part in rescuing the earth by walking, cycling, using fuel-efficient cars, utilizing energy efficient equipments, reducing garbage, saving water and buying products that are recyclable/biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Global warming is a worldwide issue. Everyone has a role to play in contributing to the survival of the earth and protecting it from harm. If we do not take the necessary measures to save the earth from such ongoing destruction, our future generations might one day not have the chance to enjoy seeing the beautiful sight of our the world we all live in.
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