Carbon, one of the most ubiquitous elements in the world, has long been linked to global warming and its stark effects on our climate. Despite the many important and beneficial uses of this element, too much of it can have a negative impact on the environment. As climate change continues to loom on humanity’s horizon and degradation of the environment persists, it is important to consider how exactly carbon contributes to global warming and what measures can be taken to keep its levels in check.
Burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas produces large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) as a by-product, which is then released into the atmosphere. Scientists estimate that more than half of the world’s climate-warming CO2 emissions result from this form of energy production. This CO2 accumulation in the atmosphere acts like a thick blanket, trapping the heat of the Earth’s surface and raising the average global temperature. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these so-called “greenhouse gases,” the majority of which come from burning carbon-based fuels, have increased the average temperature of the planet by 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit over the past century, and this rise is accelerating.
For centuries, carbon has been seen as an integral part of the economic system, and it is, but unchecked carbon emissions can also disrupt the system itself. Carbon-intensive activities carry hidden costs, such as the increased risks of more severe weather events and ocean acidification. Additionally, if production processes are not properly monitored, carbon-based pollution can lead to loss of life and the increased spread of airborne diseases.
The good news is that reducing our carbon footprint is within reach. Governments and industry need to invest in renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency improvements in order to reduce reliance on carbon-based energy production. Car manufacturers can start shifting away from vehicles with diesel or gasoline engines and toward renewables such as electric cars. Businesses and consumers can prioritize goods and services that have a minimal carbon footprint and dispose of their waste responsibly.
At the same time, individuals and local communities have an enormous role to play in mitigating the effects of climate change. Planting trees, using public transportation whenever possible, conserving energy in heating and cooling homes, and reducing food waste can all help reduce personal carbon footprints. Learning about what we can do to reduce our carbon footprint and taking action is one of the most personal and important ways to reduce global warming.
Ultimately, carbon emissions need to decrease in order to prevent the potentially devastating effects of climate change. Governments and industry, as well as local communities and each individual person, need to be aware of the actions they can take to reduce their carbon footprints. Through a global effort, the adverse effects of climate change can be alleviated and eventually reversed in the future.
