The Science of Global Warming
From Clark Community Network: Real Science
Are we prepared for the consequences of global warming?
Last week, NOAA announced its predictions for the 2006 hurricane season, warning of another active season with up to 6 major hurricanes that will attain a Cat 3 or higher status. One of the biggest concerns raised by this report is, “Are we prepared... this time?”
The catastrophic devastation in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina – its real costs in lives, resources and security – is a reminder that there are tragic consequences for being ill-prepared. Yet, even as our scientists continue to develop and report some of the most accurate climate modeling predictions, it's clear that our government is not responsibly preparing for the consequences of global warming. Our nation may pride itself on its scientific and technological achievements, but this is a global problem -- indiscriminate of national borders.
Next year in January 2007, the IPCC will present its 4th Climate Assessment Report, conclusively detailing its findings from the consensus of the scientific community that global warming by human-caused fossil fuel combustion will lead to a global crisis within this century. Based on the IPCC 2001 Report alone, global warming has been shown to have profound consequences on climate and the global community already. But as we struggle to adapt to and prevent potential adverse environmental and ecological events, the impacts on our social, economic and cultural foundations will certainly be challenging as we face a century that could be hallmarked by human-caused climate crisis.
