Article Review: Global Warming
In Uzochukwu's "The Impact of Global Warming on North Carolina," the titular issue with North Carolina's climate change is explored. According to the article, scientists around the world have concluded that human contribution to climate change is real, and comes about through the emission of greenhouse gases. With this in mind, the author notes how this has affected the state in question, and what individuals or organizations are attempting to reduce human greenhouse gas impact and climate change.
The problem, as described in the article, includes the rampant economic, environmental and societal impact of climate change on North Carolina. According to the author's research, climate change is said to have a substantial impact on state legislation and commerce if global warming continues. Due to global warming, temperature increases will lead to higher sea levels, as well as higher rates of heat-related deaths and a higher prevalence of West Nile virus and malaria due to higher populations of mosquitoes. Because of the rising sea levels, populations living near coasts and lower compared to sea level will have to relocate. Coastal business and commerce will also be dramatically affected. Hurricane damage could cause more damage in the state, as could flash flooding. More than a quarter of the state's agricultural yield will also be eliminated, allowing for a lessened ability to feed citizens and facilitate agribusiness. Permanent land erosion and beaches migrating further inward will have a dramatic effect on tourism and real estate. All of these problems and more are said to occur as a result of global warming in the state of North Carolina.
I believe that this problem and its potential solutions will have a dramatic effect on technology. For one, technology will have to be developed that will use energy more efficiently, in order to make more effective use of resources. Furthermore, there may be a greater emphasis on used technology, as technology recycling is a more eco-friendly exercise. In order to de-emphasize carbon emissions, technology such as cars and other vehicles will have to increase in efficiency as well, with more hybrid cars and the like being produced and mandated for use. Heating and air conditioning systems will also have to be streamlined, and there will be a greater emphasis on solar power and alternative energy to make up for carbon-emitting methods of power. In essence, we will have to start using technology much less, or adapt the technology we use, in order to make sure it does not contribute to further climate change at too high a rate of speed.
