Is Global Warming a Crisis?

Is Global Warming a Crisis?

Global warming has quickly become one of the most heated issues in America (pun intended). Rising temperatures and melting icebergs are indisputable evidence that the Earth is warming, but is this global heat wave a man-made crisis or just overblown hype?

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NCPA

Computer Models Based on Faulty Assumptions

National Center for Policy Analysis

The complexity of the climate and the limitations of data and computer models mean projections of future climate change are unreliable at best.

  • The data are flawed. There are major problems with data gathered from direct observation of air temperatures. Air temperature measurements do not accurately represent global patterns because of changes in the location, number, distribution and development surrounding observation sites over the 20th century.

  • Climate models are limited. Disagreement exists among scientists about whether or not atmospheric aerosols help warm or cool the earth, but most climate models assume a warming effect. Another variable that climate models do not take into account is the effect of changes in solar radiation on the Earth's climate.

  • Climate models do not make accurate predictions. In addition to problems with the data, computer models are limited by our incomplete understanding of how the Earth's climate responds to a variety of external forces. They are also limited by the speed and capabilities of contemporary computers. As a result, they do not accurately describe the current climate and have not been able to accurately describe the climate of the past 30 years.


In sum, the science does not support claims of drastic increases in global temperatures over the 21st century, nor does it support claims of human influence on weather events and other secondary effects of climate change.

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