Oxygen makes up 21% of the air, sustaining the vitality of life on Earth. However, with the acceleration of industrialization and a surge in carbon dioxide emissions, concerns are rising about the gradual depletion of oxygen. Historically, as early as 1898, British physicist Lord Kelvin predicted that within the next 500 years, Earth’s oxygen could be exhausted, leaving only an ever-increasing amount of carbon dioxide. This prediction sparked widespread discussion and prompted scientists to delve deeper into the mechanisms of oxygen consumption and replenishment.
The rise in carbon dioxide is causing the Earth’s "greenhouse effect," leading to rising temperatures and melting glaciers, which severely threaten the planet's ecosystems. It is predicted that the melting of Antarctic glaciers could result in the disappearance of low-lying areas, drastically reducing habitable space for humanity. However, green plants play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis, making them a vital source of Earth’s oxygen. Each year, the weathering of rocks consumes significant amounts of carbon dioxide, forming new limestone deposits on the ocean floor. Additionally, green plants around the globe continuously absorb carbon dioxide, maintaining the balance of oxygen.
While there is no need to overly worry about the depletion of oxygen, reducing deforestation and protecting the ecological environment remain urgent priorities. Only through collective human effort can we ensure the stability of Earth's oxygen supply.
