Conclusion
Scientists have no doubt that if human-induced greenhouse gas emissions continue at the present rate, the buildup of these
gases in the atmosphere will cause global temperatures to rise — perhaps by as much as 6.3 degrees Fahrenheit by the end of
the next century — and will create significant changes in the global climate (IPCC, 1995a, p. 5). The impacts of global
warming threaten nearly every aspect of society. Many physical effects, such as sea level rise, effects on agriculture and
forests, and impacts on human health, will translate into huge economic costs. The loss of life, the extinction of species, the
destruction of ecosystems, and numerous other effects will place additional burdens on our — and our children's — quality of
life.
We do not have details today of what the localized effects of global warming will be. But scientists predict with certainty that
continued emissions of greenhouse gases at current rates will cause significant global warming and subsequent climate change,
the effects of which may be catastrophic and irreversible (IPCC, 1995a). Given this risk it is important to buy "insurance"
against the potentially insurmountable costs — by reducing our emissions of greenhouse gases and halting deforestation. If we
do nothing, society will no doubt face serious ecological and economic consequences.
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