So to take a different angle from your most recent graphs, but tying in some of the previous data presented: we are possibly coming out of a cooler period, but the current temperature even so is in the highest of temperature ranges that have been experienced in the previous million years. Concurrently, we have quantified that atmospheric levels of multiple heat-trapping gasses are above levels that have ever been seen in human history and are still increasing, not to mention that some of the most potent of these are man-made. Not setting up for an optimistic prediction there.
Sea levels are rising (by small amounts, not obvious without specific measurements, but recorded with enough rigorous science as to be accepted by everyone), as a combination of thermal expansion and ice-shelf melting. And please dont argue the ice-shelf stuff, you're not going to win it. Ice reflects light and heat, seawater absorbs it. So we're increasing absorption, decreasing loss, in a self-perpetuating manner. Again, not a positive situation for long-term survival.
The oceans can and do absorb carbon dioxide, but this will increase their acidity. If pH gets too low (and its not a major jump as far as pH units go...) a lot of the oceans life will die -> more CO2 release from decay. Acidity can also dissolve sequestered CaCO3 and similar compounds in the sea floor, dead exoskeletons etc. More CO2 release, not to mention the social outcomes of lost food production.
And from another angle again - all the fossil fuels we are burning are non-renewable. If someone was too selfish to look at options simply as alternatives, hopefully they'd consider the impact on the future generations or their own kids / grandkids. We WILL run out, regardless of any climate change aspects. Lets do something so our kids aren't reduced to burning wood for fuel, thats if the environment hasn't collapsed to the point where even wood isn't available. |