Warming Earth: Global Warming and Human Limits.

Global warming is becoming an increasingly serious issue, and the extreme weather conditions it brings pose significant challenges to human survival and health. The international journal "Science" recently featured a photograph of an Indian man melting away in the summer heat on its cover, raising the question, "How much can the human body endure the rising temperatures due to global warming?" Let's delve into the scientific research and prospects regarding this issue.

 

Global warming poses a significant threat to our survival and health, leading to new risks for ecosystems and human societies.

 

Impact of Global Warming: Migratory Birds and Viruses

John Cohen, a U.S. science journalist, examined the effects of climate change on the health of migratory birds. According to research, migratory birds typically determine their migration timing based on factors unrelated to changes in sunlight or internal cues. However, as global warming causes an early arrival of warm spring, the ecosystems at their breeding sites change. This shift can expose migrating birds to new risks. Consequently, humanity faces an increased threat of novel viruses.

 

High temperatures also affect virus transmission. Prolonged periods of high temperatures can cause some bird species to cease migration, increasing the likelihood of large groups being exposed to viruses in one location. These viruses can then spread to other species, posing a greater risk of disease outbreaks.

 

Virus Threat from Global Warming

Cohen also warned that global warming could lead to the thawing of permafrost. The rate of temperature increase in the Arctic region is faster than anywhere else globally, potentially causing previously sealed viruses to resurface. Virus scientists at the Virus Epidemiology Observatory (VEO) warn that viruses still survive beneath the permafrost, posing a threat to humanity.

 

India's Sweltering Reality and Future

India is currently grappling with the severe risk of heatwaves. Climate change, especially in major cities, is causing a rapid increase in heatwaves. It is estimated that within the next two years, over half of India's population will migrate to urban centers. In preparation, the Indian government is improving its heatwave response plan, operating heatwave alert systems, and establishing special booths for treating heatstroke patients in hospitals.

 

Pregnant Women and the Risk of High Temperatures

Global warming also poses a threat to pregnant women and their fetuses. Research has shown that exposure to high temperatures during pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, stillbirth, congenital deformities, and more. Even a slightly elevated temperature can affect the health of pregnant women and fetuses, and this risk may worsen in the future. However, research on the relationship between pregnant women and high temperatures is still lacking.

 

Climate Change and Infectious Diseases

Climate change also affects the spread of infectious diseases. Insects like mosquitoes and ticks, which transmit viruses, breed and spread more rapidly in warmer environments. Consequently, the increase in temperature and humidity can facilitate the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, encephalitis, and dengue fever.

 

However, accurately predicting the impact of climate change is challenging due to the complex interactions between various factors and diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to predict and prepare for the risks that future natural disasters may bring.

 

Global warming poses a significant threat to our survival and health, leading to new risks for ecosystems and human societies. Urgent preparation and research are needed to address these challenges. Sustained efforts and international cooperation are necessary to protect the environment and leave a better Earth for future generations. We hope that collective efforts will lead to a brighter future for the planet.