Reading Questions 5.9 Reading Questions
1.
While anthropogenic (caused by humans) emissions are a large source of greenhouse gas emissions, there are others. What are some of the other sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere? How do the amounts of these emissions compare to those produced by humans?
2.
One argument frequently made for why increased CO2 emissions are beneficial is that higher levels of CO2 encourage plant growth and could help produce more food. Is this true? Explain how higher CO2 levels and the resulting changes to the earth's climate affect plant growth & agricultural crops.
3.
Some people make the argument that global warming patterns are unrelated to the increase in greenhouse gas emissions. How can mathematics be used to argue against this claim?
4.
Greenhouse gas levels in the Earth's atmosphere and the corresponding global temperatures have been much higher at times in Earth's history, like during the Triassic period (the age of dinosaurs). How can looking at the geological past of the Earth help us to plan for the future? Why is it short-sighted to say that just because the Earth has been warmer in the past, we should do nothing to slow climate change?
5.
Many resources around climate change focus on reducing personal consumption and cutting down your "carbon footprint." What role do individual choices have in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, compared to public policy changes like increased funding for public transportation or regulations on new power plants? What kind of actions can we take to most effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions?