Seminar Report: The Science of Global Warming

The warming of the Earth by human activity and its consequences are of intense concern to scientists, policy-makers, and citizens. Even if we ceased producing greenhouse gases today, the average temperature in the UK would continue to rise for 100 years. The abundance of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, resulting from our use of fossil fuels, has soared by 34% since the Industrial Revolution. 

Although a majority of scientists are in agreement on the interpretation of the evidence, a vocal minority does question both the evidence and predictive modelling of climate change. In light of the highly charged political debate surrounding the issue, an understanding of the basic scientific principles can only enlighten those entrusted to do something about it.