Is Global Warming Good for Us - Essay Example

Reichholf's claim is based on the fact that man has the ability to create artificial tropical living conditions through warm clothing and heated offices and homes. The species too are threatened not by climate change but by the destruction of the habitat such as deforestation. The climate according to this biologist is being used as a scapegoat to divert attention from other environmental crimes. Warming temperatures promote biodiversity – the warmer the region is the more diverse its species. The greenhouse effect could help improve biodiversity in the long run. Reichholf explains that biodiversity reached its peak a few million years ago when it was much warmer than it is today. In fact, when the ice ages came and the temperatures dropped, species became extinct, especially in the north. In warmer climates species receives new habitats. In warmer climates survival is easier.

            At the same time, the consensus is growing among scientists, governments, and businesses that something must be done to combat climate change. The nation’s largest utility companies have been forced to ensure that they reduce the emissions of the gas that are believed to be warming the earth as it threatens the economy, the health, the natural resources, and the children’s future (Business Week, 2004). The Bush Administration does not believe that the Kyoto protocol and the mandatory curbs would help the situation; it would on the contrary cripple the economy and hence advise new low-carbon technologies. The scientists do not foresee any danger because the planet is only going to be slightly warmer and there is nothing that can avoid it. Scientists claim that carbon dioxide and other gases act like the roof of a greenhouse. Energy from the sun can pass through easily and some of the warmth that would be naturally radiated back remains trapped, thereby warming the planet. If there were no greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, we would freeze. The earth’s history is full of such abrupt climate changes and they can recur at any point in time. Scientists do not dispute that the temperature will rise but there are ancillary benefits that come with it. The situation provides opportunities to burn less fossil fuel, produce more fuel-efficient cars, and use alternative energy sources thereby reducing dependency on the Persian Gulf. The entire process would save money and lead to innovative technologies.

            Thus the impact of global warming on the community is not devastating but a natural phenomenon that would keep changing. What it requires is that people are able to switch to the needed lifestyle as natural changes occur and adapt to the situation. In fact, colder climates have caused extinction and global warming is not to be feared.