(A89) The Greenhouse Effect in Nigeria

Abstract

The atmosphere contains gases that act like the glass in a greenhouse. They are transparent to visible light from the sun, and allow it to pass through to the earth below; but they absorb and trap infrared light radiated outward from the earth and convert it into heat. The principal “greenhouse gases” are chloroflourocarbons (CFCs), methane, and most importantly, carbon dioxide. The concentration of greenhouse gases is rising due to two factors: (1) the manufacturing of CFCs; and (2) the burning of fossil fuel at a tremendous, and still increasing rate. If this trend is not reversed, research predicts that there will be a steady rise in the temperature of the earth. This global warming could cause drastic climatic changes with devastating results, including: (1) shifting of seasonal winds, with the creation and spreading of deserts in the northern areas; (2) alteration in crop patterns with social upheaval; (3) starvation; and (4) the inundation of large areas of land. When this chaos begins, developing countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, etc. also will be affected, along with developed countries. The solution to the problem of CFCs in principle, though not in practice is simple: STOP MAKING THEM!! But one cannot burn carbon without producing carbon dioxide. Which is why new ways to produce energy must be used?