Horizon Season 2005 Episode 1 Global Dimming

Global Dimming: A Horizon Special explores how air pollution is actually causing the planet to cool down. Researchers have found that pollutants in the air are creating a "global dimming" effect, where less sunlight is able to reach the earth's surface. This has serious implications for climate change and the environment.

The episode begins in Israel, where Dr. Gerry Stanhill has been measuring sunlight levels for the past thirty years. He has noticed a significant drop in sunlight intensity over this time period, which has led him to investigate the cause of this decrease. Dr. Stanhill believes that air pollution is responsible for the decrease, as pollutants reflect and absorb sunlight, preventing it from reaching the earth's surface.

The show then travels to Germany, where scientists have been studying the effects of pollution on solar power production. They have found that on days with high levels of pollution, solar panels generate significantly less electricity than on clear days. This is due to the pollutants in the air blocking the sun's rays.

Next, the episode explores how global dimming is affecting the planet's climate. Researchers have found that the decrease in sunlight intensity is actually masking the true effects of climate change. As less sunlight reaches the earth's surface, it is offsetting some of the warming caused by greenhouse gases. However, this does not mean that we should rely on global dimming as a solution to climate change. The long-term effects of air pollution are still unknown, and there are many other negative consequences to pollution.

The implications of global dimming are not just environmental, but also social and political. The decrease in sunlight intensity has a significant impact on agriculture, as crops require a certain amount of sunlight to grow. In regions such as Africa and Asia, where agriculture is a major industry, global dimming could lead to food shortages and famine.

The episode also investigates how political and economic factors contribute to air pollution. In China, for example, the government prioritizes economic growth over environmental protection, leading to high levels of pollution. The episode discusses how countries can work together to decrease air pollution and mitigate the effects of global dimming.

The show ends on a hopeful note, exploring ways that we can decrease air pollution and combat global dimming. The use of cleaner energy sources such as solar and wind power can help reduce pollution and increase sunlight intensity. Additionally, the show highlights the importance of individual action and reducing our own carbon footprint.

Overall, Global Dimming: A Horizon Special provides a fascinating look at the unforeseen consequences of air pollution. The episode highlights how interconnected our world is, and how our actions can have far-reaching effects on the environment and society.