Is 2010 The Hottest Year Ever?

Sensors from around the world have confirmed that we are living through what is possibly the hottest year on record. Global warming predictions by climate scientists a decade ago now seem to have come to fruition as global temperatures have rise by 0.8C since the Second World War.

The normally cool Moscow has hit a record of 39C, causing more than a stir with crops ruined and bogs catching fire to create heavy smog. Meanwhile, the Arctic continues to suffer whereas plankton numbers (the foundation of the marine life’s food supply) are steadily dwindling. This drastic climate change is due to global warming, which happens when gases (such as carbon dioxide and methane) trap heat from the sun’s rays in the lower atmosphere, creating a greenhouse effect. The fact that this heat is being trapped means that less heat reaches the ozone layer which, in experiencing cold temperatures becomes damaged, and lets in more of the sun’s harmful rays.

Despite the realities of global warming however, the successful reduction of CFC gases following international initiatives remains promising, as the chlorine content of the atmosphere (which has a direct effect on ozone destruction potential) has begun a slow decrease. What’s more, following this success, the UN Environment Programme and the European Commission are aiding developing countries to reduce HCFC gasses too – the same gasses used as a temporary, less harmful replacement to CFCs. The project endeavours to promote efforts to reduce, and eventually eradicate the chemical emissions by putting emphasis on refrigeration and air conditioning as well as reducing car emissions.