For decades, scientists have been researching the effects of certain gases on global warming, seeking to determine which is the main culprit. In the majority of cases, the answer is carbon dioxide, a gas produced by burning fossil fuels and gas-guzzling transport. It is the most concentrated fundamental driving force behind climate change and global warming, and is responsible for more than 80% of all human-caused emissions.
Carbon dioxide, commonly referred to as CO2, is the only gas that is consistently present in the atmosphere, meaning it has a major role in contributing to the rise of the Earth’s temperature. It has been present since before the industrial revolution, however it is the rapid release of human-generated CO2 associated with energy use, industrial practices, and land-use changes that have been causing the greatest amount of damage. CO2 is first released when fossil fuels are burnt, and then it is absorbed by oceans and plant life, but this cycle is not enough to counterbalance the damaging consequences of the cumulative increase in CO2.
CO2 is not the only gas responsible for global warming, however. Methane, black carbon, and various other greenhouse gases like nitrogen dioxide are also responsible for trapping heat in the atmosphere. Nevertheless, the amount of these pollutants that is released into the atmosphere is minute in comparison to CO2, which is why it is the most compelling factor.
The amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is constantly increasing, with emissions in 2020 having been higher than ever before. The atmospheric concentration of CO2 registered 414.8 parts per million (ppm) in May 2020, surpassing the symbolic threshold of 400ppm that had been established as the most secure safe level. Unless humans reduce their emissions significantly and quickly, we can expect climate change to worsen significantly.
To this end, experts have proposed various methods of reducing our collective carbon footprint. These involve reducing energy waste and switching to renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. It also involves expanding the use of electric transportation, investing in natural carbon sinks such as forests, and increasing energy efficiency in buildings. Governments, businesses and individuals around the world are slowly beginning to take these steps, but more needs to be done.
To conclude, carbon dioxide is the major cause of global warming and is responsible for more than 80% of all human-caused emissions. The amount of CO2 in the atmosphere is increasing to dangerous levels, with the latest records showing a shocking 414.8 ppm in 2020. In order to reduce the impacts of climate change and global warming and to prevent further damage, human emissions of carbon dioxide must be reduced drastically. Governments and individuals must take action and embody more sustainable practices, while also investing in renewable energy sources and expanding the use of electric transportation. Unless we take action, we can expect the effects of global warming to worsen significantly.
