The changing atmosphere: A review

Concern over the effects of human activities on this planet and on it's ecosystems is widespread. Changes wrought within the atmosphere are of particular concern because they have pervasive social, environmental, and economic effects; some potentially serious and very long-term. The problems they pose and the need for remedial measures creates both scientific and policy challenges. This paper bridges the two domains, outlining how the atmosphere is being changed, some of the possible consequences thereof, and actions being taken to address the issue.Emissions to the atmosphere are attacking the stratospheric ozone shield, causing acidification, spreading toxic substances and increasing the greenhouse effect. Of these concerns, the global issue of greenhouse warming will have the greatest overall impact and it the most difficult to address. While some countries have taken important preventative and mitigating measures, action on the greenhouse threat generally has been restrained because of related uncertainties, possible economic upsets and the enormity of the problem. The paper ends by noting recent international initiatives toward development of needed public policies and the roles of the scientist in addressing the issue.