The Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming

Study Notes

The greenhouse effect is a natural process that occurs when certain gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor, trap heat from the sun.
This process allows the Earth to maintain a habitable temperature, but human activities have increased the concentration of these gases, leading to an enhancement of the greenhouse effect.
The main greenhouse gases responsible for global warming are:
- Carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Methane (CH4)
- Nitrous oxide (N2O)
- Ozone (O3)
- Fluorinated gases (F-gases)

Climate change refers to the long-term warming of the planet, which is primarily caused by the increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
The main causes of climate change are:
- Burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas)
- Deforestation and land-use changes
- Agriculture and livestock production
Climate change is causing:
- Rising temperatures
- More extreme weather events (e.g. heatwaves, droughts, floods)
- Changes in precipitation patterns
- Increased risk of water scarcity and food insecurity

A carbon footprint refers to the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by human activities, usually expressed in terms of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e).
The main sources of carbon footprint are:
- Energy consumption (electricity, transportation, heating)
- Food production and transportation
- Waste management
- Industrial processes
Reducing carbon footprint can be achieved through:
- Energy efficiency and renewable energy sources
- Sustainable transportation options (e.g. electric vehicles, public transport)
- Reducing meat consumption and food waste
- Implementing sustainable waste management practices

Rising sea levels are a consequence of climate change, caused by:
- Thermal expansion of seawater as it warms
- Melting of glaciers and ice sheets
The impacts of rising sea levels include:
- Coastal erosion and flooding
- Saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources
- Loss of coastal ecosystems and biodiversity
- Increased risk of water scarcity and food insecurity

Sustainable living refers to a lifestyle that minimizes harm to the environment and conserves natural resources for future generations.
Sustainable living practices include:
- Reducing energy consumption and switching to renewable energy sources
- Using eco-friendly products and reducing waste
- Eating a plant-based diet and reducing food waste
- Conserving water and reducing water pollution
- Implementing sustainable transportation options
The benefits of sustainable living include:
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change
- Improving air and water quality
- Protecting biodiversity and ecosystems
- Enhancing human health and well-being