A Brief History of Global Warming - Bloomberg

What occurred during the "Mid-Pliocene Warm Period"

• Temperatures were 1-2°C warmer than pre-industrial levels

• CO2 levels reached over 400 ppm

• Sea levels were 5-40 feet higher

• All of the above

Answer explanation

As stated in the video, during the Mid-Pliocene Warm Period 3-4 million years ago, temperatures, CO2 levels, and sea levels were all higher than pre-industrial times.

What can we do?

1. Conduct an energy audit and have parents install LED light bulbs, programmable thermostats, and improve insulation. These reduce home energy use.

2. About when did the Industrial Revolution begin?

• 1750

• 1800

• 1900

• 1950

Answer explanation

The video specifies the Industrial Revolution kicked off around 1750, which led to increases in greenhouse gas emissions.

What can we do?

1. Ask parents to switch your home's electricity plan to a renewable energy provider. Many utility companies offer clean power options.

3. What was the first human technology theorized to influence climate?

• Coal Plants

• Automobiles

• Farming

• Airplanes

Answer explanation

According to the video, early farming over 8,000 years ago was the first human activity believed to impact the climate.

What can we do?

1. Unplug devices and turn off lights when not in use. Use power strips. Reducing "vampire" energy waste makes a difference.

4. When did CO2 levels first surpass 300 ppm?

• 1800

• Early 1900s

• 1950

• 2000

Answer explanation

The video states CO2 first rose above 300 ppm in the early 20th century, around 1910-1920.

What can we do?

1. Ask to change regular family meals to have meatless or vegetarian options 1-2 days per week. Lower meat diets reduce emissions.

5. How much have global temperatures risen since the Industrial Revolution began?

• Over 2°C

• Around 1.5°C

• Close to 1°C

• Less than 0.5°C

Answer explanation

The video cites that global temperatures have increased just under 1°C since the Industrial Revolution started.

What can we do?

1. Start or join environmental clubs at school to do community clean-ups, tree planting events, recycling drives. Engage peers.

6. What is the goal of the Paris Climate Agreement?

• 100% renewable energy by 2050

• Net zero emissions by 2050 *

• Ban fossil fuels by 2030

• Carbon tax implementation

Answer explanation

As noted in the video, the Paris Agreement aims to limit warming to 1.5°C by achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by around 2050.

What can we do?

1. Use reusable containers for lunches and other items rather than disposable plastic baggies and bottles. Cut plastic pollution.

7. What is the projected future sea level rise by 2100?

• 10-30 feet

• 5-15 feet

• 2-6 feet

• 1-3 feet

Answer explanation

According to expert projections in the video, expected sea level rise by 2100 is between 2-6 feet.

What can we do?

1. Walk, bike or carpool to school and activities when possible. Organise "walk to school" groups.

8. Which greenhouse gas has increased the most due to human activities?

• Methane

• Carbon dioxide

• OzoneWater vapor

• Water vapor

Answer explanation

The video shows carbon dioxide has risen the most sharply in recent history due to the burning of fossil fuels, cement production, etc.

What can we do?

1. Engage family to reduce air travel for vacations when feasible. Look at local trips or destinations accessible by train or bus.

2. Use online platforms and social media to educate peers on climate change. Share solutions widely.