Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have risen around the world. The United States in 2009 has sadly led the way producing nearly twice as much as the second place position held by China. Scientists do not agree with each other in regards to the existence or effects of global warming. If the overall global climate is warming then businesses have an ecological reason to reduce their carbon footprint. If scientists who deny the claim are correct, carbon reduction will do no harm.
Because the possibility of global warming exists, businesses have a social responsibility to do all they can to shrink the size of their carbon dioxide production.
Effects of Global Warming from Green House Gasses
An increased warming effect would cause storms and hurricanes to become more frequent. A higher level of humidity from warming water will also make them stronger. Anticipated with global warming is the rising of water levels as the polar ice caps melt. As the water levels rise around the world an increase in the dangers of flooding will exist.
Droughts in the continental heartland are also anticipated by many researchers. While there is not a direct link that can be explained, an increase in dryer locations has been observed as rain patterns appear to change. In addition, animals and plants of many species would be impacted by this global warming process. As ice caps melt, water rises and storms become stronger and more frequent; habitats would be severely damaged or even destroyed.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Causing Warming
Water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2 ), ozone and methane are the main ingredients in greenhouse gases. This mixture of gases surrounds the earth like a warm blanket, holding heat inside of the atmosphere. CO2 is the most common element of greenhouse gases. CO2 is most commonly created by the burning of fossil fuels. Coal produces the most, followed by oil and then gas. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration explains the situation very clearly on their website.
Energy from the Sun enters into the earth's atmosphere and then bounces back into space. This transfer of energy is a delicate balance. CO2 absorbs heat as it attempts to bounce back into space. Some of this heat can be re-emitted back toward the earth and increase the overall climate temperature.
Business Carbon Footprint Reduction
Some of the best available business carbon removal or carbon reducing ideas are:
- Reducing business travel plane flights through pre-planning and virtual online meetings
- Using alternative power (solar, wind & waves)
- Rewarding employees for their dedication to carbon reducing ideas and practice
- Reducing paper usage: Recycling and sharing documents online
- Unplugging equipment at the end of the business day
- If a competitor has a well established green program, hire one of their key program founders
- Aligning with vendors and customers who share the same vision
- Setting Long Term Goals that include green initiatives
Is Global Warming a Hoax?
Not all scientists agree that global warming is a serious problem. John R. Christy, Professor of Atmospheric Science and Director of Earth Systems Science Center and the University of Alabama in Huntsville, completely disagrees based on his significant evidence. In his May 17th, 2000 presentation to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation he explained his case against global warming.
Christy first explained that Carbon Dioxide is not a pollutant but instead a plant food. "Indeed,
numerous studies indicate the present biosphere is being invigorated by the human-induced rise of CO2. In and of itself, therefore, the increasing concentration of CO2 does not pose a toxic risk to the planet", Christy stated.
He compared surface temperatures recorded for over 21 years that show insignificant degrees of increase. He also compared satellite data which added support to his case that there have been no significant increases in global temperature warming.
Companies that put in effort to make the earth a more sustainable place to live benefit even if global warming turns out to be a hoax. They benefit by showing employees, vendors, customers and communities that the company has its heart in the right place. Actions toward green initiatives expose positive core values and social responsibility.
W Denis Nurmela - - Built multi-million $ companies from scratch - Church & Non-Profit Leader - Educated & Avid Reader - Coach, Consultant, ...
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