The science of climate change is fraught with claim and counterclaim about what the industrial and developing worlds' emissions are doing to the temperature of the globe. The debate has become so vociferous and politicised that it can be difficult for the average person to get clear information on the subject. This is not helped by the fact that climate science is inordinately complicated and full of uncertainties.
For those who still have not made up their mind, or are seeking more information on the subject, Oxford University Press have republished a slim volume as a part of their “short introduction” series titled Global Warming: A Very Short Introduction. Written by Professor Mark Maslin, Director of the University College London Environment Institute, Global Warming was first published in 2004. This fully update version was published in 2009.
Global Warming Science Explained in Simple Terms
The book tackles many of the major themes of global warming, distilling complex science into clear and accessible language. Maslin also ensures his text remains lively, making the book engaging to read.
Professor Maslin tackles the history of global warming, the science which led to the conclusion that global warming is caused by human activity, possible future impacts, and finally, possible scenarios for nasty climatic and environmental events. (For example, ‘gas hydrates’ that lurk below the world’s oceans and permafrost. Increases in the temperature could cause these gas hydrates to be released into the environment, creating ‘burps of death’.)
The Politics of Climate Change
The book also devotes a chapter to the politics of climate change. The complex bureaucratic details of the Kyoto Protocol are explained, while the difficulties of getting quickly emerging economies like China and India to commit to reducing emissions are examined.
Global Warming: A Very Short Introduction ends, as these types of books usually do, with prescriptions for change. In short, we may have to adapt to climate changes that can’t be reversed, and do our best to cut emissions to try and stabilise temperature.
The Science of Climate Change is Complex and Not Completely Settled
While many prominent climate change sceptics are confident that there is nothing to worry about, and so-called ‘believers’ maintain the question is entirely settled in their favour, Professor Maslin shows that both views are over simplified. The science does not profess one hundred percent certainty. Rather, the process has been a long one of slowly building up evidence and a consensus of opinion. In short, the scientists are not completely certain, but all evidence points in a particular direction.
As Mark Maslin notes:
“The IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) 2007 report states that the evidence for global warming is unequivocal and there is very high confidence that this warming is due to human activity.”
Global Warming: A Very Short Introduction makes for an excellent primer on the big political and environmental subject of our day. It is written in a non-alarmist fashion that is both enjoyable and instructive. A helpful section on further reading is also provided for those wishing to pursue the topic.
First published by Oxford University Press, 2004. Second edition published 2009
Chris Saliba - Chris Saliba is a freelance writer. Read more of his workplace articles at chrissalibafreelancewriter.blogspot.com
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