Global PollutionGlobal Pollution

Changing the balance.

OutlineOutline Acid Rain

“The AIDS of the forest.”Death to lakes.

Stratospheric Ozone DepletionThe ozone layerCFC’s and ozone holes

Global WarmingThe theoryThe evidenceThe fearsThe decisions

Acid RainAcid Rain SOx and NOx are both products of fossil fuel

combustion. In the air, they combine with Oxygen and water

to produce sulfuric and nitric acids. Rain has a natural pH level of 5.6 due to Carbon

dioxide in the air. Acidity has been increased in some areas to pH

< 4, which is the level of vinegar.

Effects of Acid RainEffects of Acid Rain Tree defoliation: Germany, Canada, US

northeast. Lake acidity and fish population decline. Destruction of man-made products. acidrainprogress.pdf http://www.epa.gov/oar/aqtrnd97/brochure/acidr

.html Acid Rain Progress Report

Ozone DepletionOzone Depletion The Stratospheric Ozone layer serves as a natural

barrier to UV radiation. Production and use of CFC’s, chlorofluorocarbons,

specifically degrades the ozone layer. CFC’s were used in aerosol sprays, as refrigerants, and

blowing agents. Since 1995 their production has been banned in the US stratoz.pdf

Global Warming TheoryGlobal Warming Theory CO2 in atmosphere serves a minor role, together with

H2O, in trapping Infrared radiation near the surface of the earth. (60 F total impact, CO2 accounts for roughly 2 F)

Accelerated release of CO2 during the industrial age has disrupted the natural balance.

CO2 levels predicted to double by mid century, leading to perhaps another 2-4 F rise in surface temperatures.

Global warming evidenceGlobal warming evidence

The 1990’s: the warmest decade on record. Warming is occurring globally. Satellite data indicate less warming. Why? Natural variability?

Global warming fearsGlobal warming fears

Isn’t warming good? Isn’t additional CO2 good for Agriculture? Potential sea level rise Potential rise in extreme weather Potential increase in infectious diseases.

DecisionsDecisions To reduce CO2 in any meaningful way means an

abrupt change in Fossil fuel use. Kyoto agreement in 1997: But no one is obeying

it. Is there a legitimate alternative? Why the rush to make a decision? Where does the US fit in, and why doesn’t the

US want to lead the way?

Global Warming LinksGlobal Warming Links

all_science.pdf all_emissions.pdf all_impacts.pdf EPA Global Warming Site links to various sites on global warming Global warming opinions page