A global average temperature rise of only 1C could have serious
implications. Possible consequences include melting of polar ice
caps; an increase in sea level; and increases in precipitation and
severe weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, heat waves, floods,
and droughts. Indirect effects include increases in infectious disease,
weather-related deaths, and food and water shortages. All these effects
put a stress on ecosystems and agriculture, and threaten our planet as
a whole.

air pollution include urban smog and reduced visibility, associated with
ozone-forming nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compound emissions.
Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides combine with water in the atmosphere to
cause acid rain, which is detrimental to forests and other vegetation, soil,
lakes, and aquatic life. Acid rain also causes monuments and buildings to
deteriorate.