Human and Environmental Interaction Case Study:

The Global Warming Controversy

The Controversy: What is it?

• A dispute regarding the nature and consequences of global warming.

Useful Definitions

• Global warming:Global warming:

Gradual increase in the Earth’s surface temperature. Warming caused by human activity.

• Climate Change:Climate Change:Long-term average of a region’s weather events.

(Ex.) Warm winter day in MN but avg

weather/climate may be cold.

Buzz Word: Greenhouse Effect

Rise in temp. because some gases in atmosphere (like CO2) trap energy from the sun.

Public Perception of Global Warming

StatementStatement % % AgreeAgree

YearYear

Human activity is a significant cause of climate change

79 2007

Climate change is a serious problem

90 2006

Climate change is a serious problem

78 2003

It is necessary to take major steps soon

65 2007

Fast Facts

• Survey taken in 2006Survey taken in 2006– Asked whether they thought global warming was an

issue and, if they had concern:

Japan:Japan: 65% said yes

India:India: 65%

Spain: 51%

France:France: 46%

US:US: 19%

China:China: 20%

Here’s what we are going to do:

• You will look at both sides of the issue using articles, pictures, and videos in groups of 3.

• Organize your evidence on the poster board by cutting and pasting pictures, sentences, words, phrases etc.

• End: Use poster to come up with your decision whether global warming is a threat.