espite overwhelming scientific evidence, popular myths and misinformation abound. Here are the facts of what we know about global warming.
FACT - There is scientific consensus on the basic facts of global warming.
The most respected scientific bodies have stated unequivocally that global warming is occurring, and people are causing it.
FACT - The global warming we are experiencing is not natural. People are causing it.
Only CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions from human activities explain the observed warming now taking place on Earth.
FACT - Glaciers are melting and are a contributor to sea-level rise.
Between 1961 and 1997, the world's glaciers lost 890 cubic miles of ice. The consensus among scientists is that rising air temperatures are the most important factor behind the retreat of glaciers on a global scale over long time periods.
FACT - Global warming and increased CO2 will harm many economies and communities.
While some skeptics may argue that there are benefits to global warming and extra CO2, warming in just the middle range of scientific projections would have devastating impacts on many sectors of the economy.
FACT - Many communities won't be able to adapt to rapid climate change.
The current warming of our climate will bring major hardships and economic dislocations — untold human suffering, especially for our children and grandchildren.
For more information, see our in-depth scientific report [PDF] on the myths and facts of global warming by Dr. James Wang and Dr. Michael Oppenheimer.
