CBSE Class 10 Answered

What will our Earth look like in the future? 

December 20, 2018 – 14:00 

How our planet will look like in future depends on how our actions affect and influence the global climate. To a large degree, it is up to us as to what kind of a climate we will experience let’s say in 2050. However, there are some people who do not “believe” in human-caused climate change. It is important nonetheless to understand how human activities contribute to climate change and how do they compare with natural influences. 

The largest known contribution comes from the burning of fossil fuels, which releases carbon dioxide gas to the atmosphere. The use of greenhouse gases and aerosols cause alterations in the incoming solar radiation and outgoing infrared (thermal) radiation, which are a part of Earth’s energy balance. This can lead to a warming or cooling of the climate system. 

Some other adverse effects on the environment resulting from human activities are decreased water quality and increased pollution. Excessive use of fertilizers rapidly reduces water quality by causing overgrowth of certain bacteria and algae that use the oxygen necessary for other species to survive. These nutrients can be transported downstream to other streams, rivers and bays and reduce water quality in places far removed from where they were first introduced. 

Increased fossil fuel combustion from motor vehicles, industrial factories and power plants all pump large quantities of air pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, ozone and nitrous oxides, into the atmosphere. These can lead to serious health effects like cancer, or other types of reproductive effects and birth defects. 

There are several simple things that we can do on a daily basis to minimize their impact on the environment. Taking public transportation or walking instead of driving will reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Using less fertilizer will lessen the likelihood of water pollution nearby. This, in turn, will also benefit drinking water and human health. Using energy judiciously in one’s homes can decrease pollution arising out of coal-fuelled power plants. 

In conclusion, any activity which reduces water and energy consumption can lead to positive impacts on our environment. It is, therefore, important to look into how our actions affect and influence the global climate.