The ancient silk road in China is being brought back into the light in order to economically connect China to Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Indian and Mediterranean Ocean. The large project is sought after to stimulate the world economy. Although this is the main reason behind it, another hopeful outcome is global cooperation. Jack Liu, director for the Center of Systems Integration and Sustainability(CSIS) explains that our globe is facing environmental challenges such as global change and various forms of pollution. So, having a connection between 63 countries will create unity not only economically but environmentally as well. It is crucial for Liu that solutions are immediate but is aware that it takes a sophisticated way to relay the message to neighboring nations. With this modern "Silk Road" connecting China to dozens of countries, China is hoping for not only positive economic outcomes, but solutions to environmental issues. Plans to do this include efficient infrastructure building, multi- country joint research programs, festival and fairs to promote environmental appreciation, and the inclusion of the UN in climate adaptation and poverty alleviation. It may not seem like this is achievable, but the fact that a system as large as this in China is taking environmental issues into consideration when tackling economic goals is a large step in the right direction. Connecting countries together to solve the problems of climate change and pollution will lead to progress not just one country at a time, but simultaneously. Hopefully this plan goes into effect in the upcoming years. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/11/161104190820.htm
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It is well known that the western United States including California, Oregon and Washington are experiencing record low levels of snow. It is not however, due to low precipitation levels but instead high temperatures; according to scientists at Oregon State University. Over 80% of the snow measurement sites in these states showed that the low snow levels were because of higher than average temperatures, suggested to be caused in part by greenhouse gases. 1977, the previous record low year for snow was due to not enough moisture in the air, not greenhouse gases. In 2015, 111 snow recording sites showed the April 1 value at zero, meaning there was no snow by that time. This data showed that the California and Oregon snowpack was 90 percent below average.
Researchers ran multiple simulations with lower greenhouse gas levels to imitate preindustrial time as well as greenhouse gas emissions from 2014 and the results of snow levels correlated, the preindustrial time having more snow fall. This data disproves statements that the western states are simply having dry months. The rise in temperatures is in part caused by greenhouse gases and needs to be corrected. Low levels of snowfall contribute to California's multi year drought. |
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