The Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming

Greenhouse Effect

• 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

• 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

Carbon Footprint

• 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

• 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

• 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