History of Climate Change: From the Earth's Origins to the Anthropocene

There are many theories and opinions about climate change, with some believing it is already beyond control and others skeptical about its extent. This comprehensive history of the climate and climate change explains how the planetary climate system works and how the climate has evolved over millions of years, fluctuating between hot and cold periods. The rise in temperature of the last fifty years has been fast, making it difficult for the environment to adapt, and the human population is much greater than it was in the past, making it difficult to survive and flourish. To understand what is at stake, we need to understand how the climate works and how human activity is affecting it.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 08 June 2023
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Theories and perspectives on climate change abound, ranging from those who assert that human-induced climate change has reached uncontrollable levels to those who remain skeptical about the actual extent of these changes. It is crucial to evaluate the scientific evidence and understand the role that climate change has played in Earth's history. In this comprehensive history of the climate and climate change, Antonello Provenzale delves into the workings of the planetary climate system and the evolution of the climate over millions of years.

Beginning with the catastrophic events that shaped the early history of Earth, such as seas of magma, global glaciations, and mass extinctions, Provenzale illustrates how the climate has experienced fluctuations between hot and cold periods. During certain times, the Earth was hot and lush with forests, while at other times, it was almost entirely covered by a thick layer of ice. The mechanisms that govern climate modifications are intricate and multifaceted, encompassing external factors like solar luminosity and variations in Earth's orbit, as well as internal processes linking the atmosphere, oceans, crust, mantle, and biosphere, which is composed of living organisms.

While the climate has undergone significant fluctuations throughout Earth's long history, two aspects of our current situation warrant considerable concern. Firstly, the rise in temperature over the past fifty years has been remarkably rapid, posing significant challenges for the environment to adapt to the changing conditions. Secondly, the human population has grown significantly, requiring water, food, energy, and shelter for survival and prosperity. If temperatures continue to increase at the rate observed in recent decades, the future of our world will be challenging.

To fully grasp the significance of the situation, it is essential to delve into the various aspects of climate change. Provenzale discusses the scientific evidence supporting the existence of human-induced climate change, including the increase in greenhouse gas concentrations, rising global temperatures, and the melting of polar ice caps. He also explores the impacts of climate change on ecosystems, agriculture, human health, and the global economy.

Furthermore, Provenzale examines the historical context of climate change, including the contributions of past civilizations and the role of human activities in shaping the current climate crisis. He discusses the Kyoto Protocol, international agreements aimed at mitigating climate change, and the challenges faced in achieving global cooperation.

In conclusion, this comprehensive history of the climate and climate change provides valuable insights into the complex mechanisms that govern the Earth's climate system. It highlights the concerns associated with rapid temperature rise and the growing human population. By understanding the scientific evidence, historical context, and potential impacts of climate change, we can better equip ourselves to address this global challenge and work towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

Weight: 602g
Dimension: 236 x 159 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509553938