Global warming is also putting pressure on
ecosystems, the plants and animals that co-exist in a
particular climate. Warmer temperatures have already
shifted the growing season in many parts of the
Sea levels crept up about 20
centimeters during the
twentieth century. Most of the
rise happened because water
expands as it warms, though
melting mountain glaciers also
contributed to the change. Sea
levels are predicted to go up
between 0.18 and 0.59 meters
over the next century, though
the increase could be greater if
ice sheets in Greenland and
Antarctica melt more quickly
than predicted. Higher sea
levels will erode coastlines and
cause more frequent flooding.
(Graph ©2007 Robert Rohde.)
shifted the growing season in many parts of the
globe. Spring is coming earlier, and that means that
migrating animals have to start earlier to follow food
sources. And since the growing season is longer,
plants need more water to keep growing or they will
dry out, increasing the risk of fires.