Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
CO2 is responsible for approximately three-quarters of global greenhouse gas emissions. It is released through various human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas for energy, transportation, and industrial processes. Power plants, automobiles, and factories are significant contributors. CO2 is also released during deforestation, as trees that absorb CO2 are cut down.
Deforestation
Forests play a critical role in regulating the Earth's climate by absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis. Deforestation, which involves clearing forests for agriculture, logging, or urban development, reduces the planet's capacity to absorb CO2. This loss of trees contributes to higher atmospheric CO2 levels. Deforestation also disrupts local ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss and altering the water cycle, which can exacerbate climate change impacts.
Chemical Manufacturing
The chemical industry is another major source of GHG emissions. The production of chemicals, including fertilizers, plastics, and other industrial products, often involves energy-intensive processes that release CO2, methane, and other pollutants. Additionally, certain chemical processes produce nitrous oxide and other greenhouse gases as byproducts.