The Greenhouse Effect

Draw and label a diagram of the carbon cycle

• Do it. Now!

Carbon Cycle

Analyze the changes in concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide using historical

records

Major Greenhouse Gases

• The Kyoto Protocol covers emissions of water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)

Explain the relationship between rises in concentration of greenhouse gases and the

enhanced greenhouse effect

Outline the Precautionary Principle• 1992 Declaration on Environment and

Development; • the declaration includes the principle, "Nations

shall use the precautionary approach to protect the environment.

• Where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, scientific uncertainty shall not be used to postpone cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation.

• Those responsible for the change must prove that it will not do harm before proceeding

Evaluate the precautionary principle as a justification for strong action in response to

the threats posed by the enhanced greenhouse effect (aka global warming)

• Do it. Homework!

Outline the consequences of a global

temperature rise on arctic ecosystems.• •Effects include

• increased rates of decomposition of detritus previously trapped in permafrost = Inc. CO2

• expansion of the range of habitats available to temperate species,

• loss of ice habitat,

• changes in distribution of prey species affecting higher trophic levels,

• increased success of pest species, including pathogens