(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-02-02 07:42

Abnormal weather tells us we must protect our environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, says an article in People's Daily. The following is an excerpt.

In recent years, abnormal weather like snowstorms and heat waves has occurred globally, and is now a major issue. The World Health Organization pointed out recently that humans are being seriously affected by climate change. It has become a global threat and measures must be taken to combat it.

Temperatures are rising throughout the world. "Warm winters" are now becoming commonplace.

In the northern hemisphere in 2006, when it should have witnessed its coldest period, people were clad in sleeveless shirts, bears forgot to hibernate, birds failed to migrate, plants sprouted and ski runs melted.

Climate change not only causes abnormal cold snaps, but also heat waves. Sea levels rise, islands disappear, glaciers melt, and more floods and drought occur.

Last year, the UN pointed out that if humans do not address environmental issues, the average temperature of the world could rise by 6.3 degrees Centigrade by the end of this century.

According to scientific research, an average rise of 3 degrees Centigrade could cause floods in Asia affecting 7 million people, and food shortages affecting more than 100 million people.

The repeated occurrence of abnormal weather has sounded an alarm for humans. Every one must participate in the fight to safeguard the global environment.

(China Daily 02/02/2008 page4)