The main cause of global warming is the emission of greenhouse gases, predominantly from the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas. These activities are by far the largest contributors to the Earth's warming climate.
The Dominance of Fossil Fuels
Fossil fuels are the primary driver of global temperature increases. Their combustion releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Specifically, the burning of coal, oil, and gas accounts for:
- Over 75 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.
- Nearly 90 per cent of all carbon dioxide emissions.
This makes them the overwhelming source of the gases responsible for trapping heat on Earth.
| Contributor Type | Share of Global Greenhouse Gas Emissions | Share of Global Carbon Dioxide Emissions |
|---|---|---|
| Fossil Fuels (Coal, Oil, Gas) | Over 75% | Nearly 90% |
How Greenhouse Gases Trap Heat
When greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere, they form a blanket around the Earth. This atmospheric layer traps heat from the sun that would otherwise radiate back into space. This phenomenon is known as the greenhouse effect, and an increase in these gases intensifies the effect, leading to a rise in global temperatures, which is global warming.
Addressing the Root Cause
Mitigating global warming primarily involves reducing the world's reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Key strategies include:
- Transitioning to Renewable Energy: Investing in and utilizing sources like solar, wind, and hydropower can significantly reduce the need for fossil fuels for electricity generation.
- Improving Energy Efficiency: Enhancing the energy efficiency of buildings, transportation, and industrial processes can lower overall energy consumption and, consequently, emissions.
- Promoting Sustainable Transportation: Shifting towards electric vehicles, public transport, cycling, and walking can reduce emissions from the transport sector.
- Protecting and Restoring Forests: Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. Preventing deforestation and supporting reforestation efforts are crucial steps in managing atmospheric carbon.
For more information on the causes and effects of climate change, you can visit the United Nations Climate Change website.
