Hmm, why is that? That sounds like human activity does not influence the weather, at least not as much as other factors. Is that the case?jay gw said:Two new studies conclude that even if humankind takes dramatic action now to curb global warming, the world will continue to heat up and sea levels will rise for centuries. The reports, in Science magazine, underscore the difficulties in dealing with a worldwide environmental issue.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=4539936
why is that? That sounds like human activity does not influence the weather, at least not as much as other factors. Is that the case?
How do you know we started it?jay gw said:Yes. According to these studies, even if all cars stopped and factories shut down, the temperatures are going to continue going upwards.
It's a kind of cycle that operates on its own. Human beings have contributed to starting it, but it seems to be moving by itself.
Just because human activity helped start climate changes does not mean stopping activity will reverse anything.
Still, ending pollution is a goal no matter what the climate does. Pollution is bad on many levels.
Donks said:Hmm, why is that? That sounds like human activity does not influence the weather, at least not as much as other factors. Is that the case?
Cool, thanks.Brian the Snail said:It's because of the large thermal inertia of the climate system due to the presence of oceans. So it takes many years for the system to reach its equilibrium temperature in response to the extra heat energy from greenhouse gases. Just like it takes a few minutes for a pan of water to heat up on a gas ring.
This actually isn't a new result and has been known for some time. It says nothing about whether humans are responsible.
Drooper said:The best course of action then is to do nothing.
No benefit, no cost.