How Did Carbon Dioxide Levels Get so High?
Since the Industrial Revolution, humans have been pumping carbon dioxide into the atmosphere with a ferocity that the Earths natural purifying systems cant cope with. The energy used to power our transport, agriculture, industry and waste practices is supplied by the burning of fossil fuels like coal and oil, which are some of the top emitters of CO2. When you add this to the rapid rate of deforestation, you can see why Earths natural purifying systems are struggling!
Why Is Carbon Dioxide a Problem?
The problem with these extra emissions is that CO2 traps heat, keeping radiant energy locked in the lower atmosphere and increasing the Earths temperature. On average, the Earths temperature is about 15C. It does fluctuate, but scientists tell us that the temperature is rising faster than ever due to our unchecked emission of CO2 and other Greenhouse Gases. You can find out what were doing to stop the rise of carbon emissions and keep the planet from warming here!
What Are Greenhouse Gases?
People usually focus on carbon dioxide, but there are several types of greenhouse gases that come from human activity. Heres a brief overview of each, and you can find more detailed information on them in the reference website below.
- Methane (CH4) is emitted during the production and transport of fossil fuels like oil, coal and gas. Its also emitted from livestock and other agricultural practices.
- Methane (CH4) is emitted during the production and transport of fossil fuels like oil, coal and gas. Its also emitted from livestock and other agricultural practices.
- Methane (CH4) is emitted during the production and transport of fossil fuels like oil, coal and gas. Its also emitted from livestock and other agricultural practices.
- Methane (CH4) is emitted during the production and transport of fossil fuels like oil, coal and gas. Its also emitted from livestock and other agricultural practices.
