Chikyū Ondanka (地球温暖化)

Definition

Chikyū Ondanka refers to global warming, the long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. This phenomenon leads to significant environmental impacts, political tensions over resource management, and societal challenges such as displacement and health issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Earth's average temperature has increased by about 1.2 degrees Celsius since the late 19th century, mainly due to human activities.
2. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and droughts, have become more frequent and intense due to global warming.
3. Melting ice caps and glaciers contribute to rising sea levels, which threaten coastal communities and ecosystems.
4. Political responses to Chikyū Ondanka include international agreements like the Paris Agreement, aiming to limit global temperature rise.
5. Societal impacts include increased health risks from heatwaves, food security issues due to crop failures, and displacement of populations from affected areas.

Review Questions

• How does Chikyū Ondanka influence political dynamics among nations?
  • Chikyū Ondanka creates political challenges as countries grapple with resource management and climate policies. Nations may compete for resources affected by climate change, such as water and arable land, leading to tensions. Additionally, international agreements like the Paris Agreement require cooperation among countries to address global warming, highlighting the necessity for collaborative efforts to combat its effects.
• Evaluate the environmental consequences of Chikyū Ondanka on ecosystems and biodiversity.
  • Chikyū Ondanka significantly affects ecosystems by altering habitats and shifting species distributions. Many species struggle to adapt to changing temperatures and weather patterns, leading to loss of biodiversity. Coral reefs are particularly vulnerable, experiencing bleaching events due to rising ocean temperatures, which disrupt marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of communities dependent on fishing.
• Assess the role of public awareness and education in addressing the challenges posed by Chikyū Ondanka.
  • Public awareness and education are crucial in tackling Chikyū Ondanka by promoting understanding of its causes and effects. When people are informed about climate issues, they are more likely to advocate for sustainable practices and support policy changes. Educational programs can empower individuals to reduce their carbon footprint and participate in community initiatives aimed at mitigating the impact of global warming, fostering a collective responsibility towards environmental stewardship.

Related terms

Greenhouse Gases: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, which are major contributors to global warming.

Climate Change: Long-term alterations in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, often driven by global warming.

Sustainability: The ability to maintain ecological balance by using resources responsibly to ensure that future generations can meet their needs.