Question

Several forecasters have predicted that even if we completely stop all fossil fuel burning tomorrow, it is too late to stop climate change. Describe the main reasons why this may be so.

A) Irreversible feedback loops amplifying warming.
B) Rapid depletion of ozone layer protecting the Earth.
C) Technological advancements mitigating climate effects.
D) Afforestation efforts reversing climate change impacts.

Answer 1

Climate change may not be completely reversible due to irreversible feedback loops, existing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and other significant sources of carbon emissions like deforestation and agriculture.

Step-by-step explanation:

Even if we stop burning fossil fuels tomorrow, it may be too late to completely halt climate change due to several factors:

• Irreversible feedback loops - These naturally occurring processes amplify the warming effect, such as the loss of sunlight-reflecting snow and ice.
• Existing levels of greenhouse gases already in the atmosphere will continue to have lasting effects.
• Other sources of carbon emissions, such as deforestation and agriculture, also contribute significantly to climate change.

Limited intervention options like afforestation and technological advancements might slow down climate change but cannot reverse the changes that have already taken place and settled into the environment.