Union of Concerned Scientists

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is dedicated to a worldwide reduction in the emission of heat-trapping greenhouse gases. In the following viewpoint, the UCS maintains that there is a scientific consensus supporting the theory that the global climate is warming due to the increasing atmospheric concentration of CO2 and other gases resulting from human activities. The UCS believes that the climate models forecasting global warming have been closely scrutinized and have the support of prestigious scientific panels. The impacts of global warming remain uncertain, but serious environmental consequences may arise if emissions reductions are not undertaken, in the opinion of the UCS.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. Why is the global warming debate so contentious, according to the UCS?
2. How does the UCS address concerns that the...