From the rising temperatures to the effects of climate change on ecosystems and economies, global warming has become a major concern for many, and has developed into one of the most pressing issues of our time. But what, exactly, is the biggest contributor to global warming? Although the causes of global warming are complex and numerous, the largest contributor is Carbon dioxide, or CO2, due to human activity including the burning of fossil fuels, forest destruction, and industrial farming.
CO2 is naturally released into the atmosphere as part of Earth’s carbon cycle; however, humans are significantly accelerating emissions of CO2 through the burning of fossil fuels for energy, driving cars, and other human activities, travelling for example. These emissions trap heat within the atmosphere, increasing the global average temperature and causing climate change and extreme weather events.
Greenhouse gases, like CO2, are responsible for trapping a majority of the heat in the atmosphere, as they act like an insulation of the atmosphere. While they may be invisible, they are powerful enough to trap our planet’s heat. Greenhouse gases, like CO2, play a major role in global warming and climate change, with CO2 being present in over 66% of the Earth’s atmosphere, far more than any other greenhouse gas.
Additionally, deforestation plays an important role in the increase of CO2 in the atmosphere. Forests are the “lungs of the world”, soaking up Carbon dioxide and providing much-needed oxygen to the atmosphere. However, deforestation of the world’s forests due to logging, agriculture and development, reduces the number of trees available to trap and absorb Carbon dioxide.
Finally, industrial farming plays a large role in emissions of CO2. It involves the production of animal feed such as soy, corn, and wheat, which requires the application of large amounts of fertilizer containing Nitrogen. Nitrogen is a powerful fertilizer, however when it enters the atmosphere it breaks down into Nitrous oxide which, according to the Climate and Clean Air Commission, has 300 times the potency of Carbon dioxide when it comes to trapping heat
Many other human activities are impacting global warming, however Carbon dioxide is the largest contributor. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial farming are all major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and its effect on global temperatures. The good news is that there are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce emissions and save the planet. Reformed policies and regulations, increased research into renewable energy sources, and a shift towards a more sustainable lifestyle could all help in reversing the effects of global warming and help to keep our planet healthy.
In conclusion, although there are several causes of global warming, Carbon dioxide is the main contributor, with human activities including the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial farming all having a large impact on emissions. Taking action on climate change means making changes to how we live our lives and how we use the planet’s resources, with the potential to avert further disaster.
