The average surface temperature of earth has increased more than 1 degree Fahrenheit since 1900 and the rate of warming has been nearly three times the century-long average since 1970. Almost all experts studying the recent climate history of the earth agree now that human activities, mainly the release of heat-trapping gases from smokestacks, tailpipes, and burning forests, are probably the dominant force driving the trend. The gases add to the planet’s natural greenhouse effect, allowing sunlight in, but preventing some of the resulting heat from radiating back to space. Drawing on research on past climate shifts, observations of current conditions, and computer simulations, many climate experts say that without big curbs in greenhouse gas emissions, the 21st century could see temperatures rise 3 to 8 degrees, weather patterns sharply shift, ice sheets shrink and seas rise several feet.
THE NORTH POLE WAS HERE
PUZZLES AND PERILS AT THE TOP OF THE WORLD
By Andrew C. Revkin
New York Times reporter, Andrew Revkin leads readers through the mysterious history of arctic exploration. He follows oceanographers, peers into the mysteries of climate modeling and global warming, and ultimately shows how the fate of the pole will affect us all.
Ages 10 and up
A New York Times Book / KINGFISHER
128 pages, hardcover.
Publication: April 2006
ISBN : 0-7534-5993-0
Price : USD$15.95
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