The Issue of Climate Change: Causes, Consequences and Countermeasures

Abstract

The article discusses the issues surrounding the definition of the term “climate” and the causes of global warming. It is proposed that the term “climate” originates from the Greek word “klima,” meaning “inclination,” and is associated with the angle of sunlight falling on the Earth’s surface or the tilt of the Earth’s rotational axis relative to its orbital plane. This concept, however, may be more applicable to “weather” on a daily, monthly, or yearly scale. Therefore, the author suggests extending the term to encompass all “inclinations” (deviations) that drive the development of natural processes and their components, including climate. The significant contribution of the greenhouse effect to global warming, along with its adverse consequences, is highlighted. This is evidenced by a sharp rise in air temperatures in Polar Regions and the near absence of warming in the equatorial zone. It is noted that the increase in atmospheric CO₂
concentration is primarily driven by the unprecedented rise in hydrocarbon extraction and consumption, particularly in the metallurgical industry and related sectors, which currently contribute approximately 80% of global GDP. Among these sectors, arms production and trade, predominantly conducted by state enterprises, stand out as the most profitable economic industry. This industry, however, thrives on perpetual conflicts fueled under various pretexts.
Consequently, resolving global warming largely hinges on addressing the issue of peace on Earth.