The United Nations has described global warming as "the most profound threat facing humanity". Although there is still some debate over the extent of global warming, it is widely accepted that the temperature of the earth is rising, and the world's climate is changing.

Global warming has the potential to make sea levels rise, which endangers coastal communities and environments. Some regions will experience higher rainfall, while others will experience drought. There will be a flow-on effect to plants and animals. We can expect to see more heat-related illnesses and the spread of new diseases. The changes to the environment will inevitably affect food supply and living conditions.

Certain gas emissions have been linked to global warming. At the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Kyoto, Japan in 1997, the UN called upon the world's developed nations to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2010.

Other developed countries agreed to reduce their collective emissions to at least 5% below 1990 levels. Australia argued for higher targets based on this country's dependence on fossil fuels for our energy needs as well as economic activity.

Australia agreed only to limit the growth of greenhouse gas emissions to 8% above 1990 levels in the period 2008-12.

Australia is among the top five greenhouse gas emitters. In 1990 Australia produced 572 million tonnes of carbon dioxide. A greenhouse inventory of Australia revealed forest destruction contributed 25% of 1990 greenhouse gas emissions and that the energy sector 53%. Despite these figures, forest clearing continues, no strict controls have been placed on industry, and renewable energy options are largely ignored.

In August last year the Federal Senate established an inquiry to examine our response to global warming and the effectiveness of Australian policies to reduce greenhouse emissions. The inquiry's report is due to be handed down this month.

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