The globally averaged surface temperature of the Earth has increased during the past century by
about 0.7°C. Most of the increase can be attributed to the greenhouse effect the increase in
the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide that is emitted when fossil fuels are burned to
produce energy.The book begins with the important distinction between weather and climate
followed by data showing how carbon dioxide has increased and the incontrovertible evidence
that it is caused by burning fossil fuels (i.e. coal oil and natural gas). I also address
the inevitable skepticism that global warming arouses and offer a number of responses to the
global warming skeptics. After dealing with the skeptics I analyze both the current and future
effects of global warming. These future effects are based on scenarios or storylines put forth
by the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis. In closing I address the
controversial (and grim) suggestion that we have already passed the tipping point which is the
time after which regardless of our future actions global warming will cause considerable
hardship on human society. I intend this book to be approachable for all concerned citizens
but especially students of the sciences and engineering who will soon be in a position to make
a difference in the areas of energy and the environment. I have tried to frame the debate in
terms of what the engineering community must do to help combat global warming. We have no
choice but to think in terms of global environmental constraints as we design new power plants
factories automobiles buildings and homes. The best thing for scientists to do is to present
what we know clearly separating what is known from what is suspected in a non-apocalyptic
manner. If matters are clearly and passionately presented to the public we must be prepared to
accept the will of the people. This presents the scientific community with an enormous
responsibility perhaps unlike any we have had in the past.Contents: Weather and Climate (and a
Little History) Are the Concentrations of Greenhouse Gases in the Atmosphere Increasing?
The Greenhouse Effect and the Evidence of Global Warming The Skeptics: Are Their Doubts
Scientifically Valid Impacts: The So What Question The Bottom Line
