Is Global Warming Skepticism just Smoke and Mirrors Essay

Is Global Warming Skepticism just Smoke and Mirrors - Essay Example Those who argue that global warming skepticism is just smoke and mirrors contend that global warming is very much real. They further insist that global warming is a phenomenon caused by man’s destructive and indiscriminate activities. They cite greenhouse gas emissions as one of the primary causes of global warming. Studies conducted by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration established that computer models based on man-made emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) matched present manifestations of changes in the Earth’s climate (Henderson, 2005). Greenhouse gas emissions come primarily from our oil-powered vehicles and industries, and these emissions are ultimately causing the greenhouse effect responsible for climate change. Chlorofluorocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons and sulfur hexafluoride are compounds created by man. The chlorofluorocarbons are used as coolants in refrigerators and air conditioners, and these are also released in the manufacturing of alumin um. Hydrofluorocarbons are a by-product of foam and other manufacturing processes. These carbon emissions are trapped in our atmosphere for prolonged periods of time; and while they are trapped in the Earth’s atmosphere, they also trap the sun’s heat. They damage the ozone layer that protects the earth from the ultraviolet rays of the sun (Ygoy, 2007). And as more industries are being developed, more pollutants are expected to be introduced into our environment to further contribute to global warming. Many environmentalists fiercely argue against global warming skepticism because there are various scientific proofs indicating the veracity of this phenomenon. Since the start of the 20th century, the global surface temperature has increased by 0.74C.