Greenhouse gas emissions

Greenhouse gas emissions are the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere as a result of human activities and natural processes. These gases play a key role in the global climate system as they have the ability to absorb infrared radiation and radiate it back to the earth’s surface, increasing the temperature of the earth’s atmosphere and causing the so-called greenhouse effect.

Causes of greenhouse gas emissions:

1. Burning fossil fuels: the main source of human greenhouse gas emissions is the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas for power generation, transportation and industrial processes.
2. Land use change: Deforestation, urbanization, agriculture and deforestation contribute to the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
3. Agriculture: Agricultural practices such as livestock farming, rice cultivation and fertilization lead to the release of methane and nitrous oxide, two potent greenhouse gases.
4. Industrial processes: Various industrial activities, including the manufacture of cement and chemical products, generate greenhouse gas emissions.

Types of greenhouse gases:

The main greenhouse gases are:

1. Carbon dioxide (CO2): The most prevalent greenhouse gas, mainly released by the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.
2. Methane (CH4): A very potent greenhouse gas produced by agricultural processes, livestock farming and the extraction and use of natural gas.
3. Nitrous oxide (N2O): Another potent greenhouse gas released in agriculture, especially from fertilization and landfills.
4. Fluorinated gases (F-gases): These gases are used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators and other industrial applications.

Effects of greenhouse gas emissions:

The increased concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere amplifies the natural greenhouse effect and leads to climate change, including:

• Increase in average temperatures: the global rise in temperature leads to heat waves, glacial melting and a rise in sea levels.
• Extreme weather events: Changes in climate can lead to increased storm events, droughts and floods.
• Ecological effects: Shifting climate zones affect ecosystems and the distribution of species.
• Economic consequences: Climate change can cause significant economic damage, particularly in the areas of agriculture, tourism and infrastructure.

Combating greenhouse gas emissions:

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is critical to mitigating climate change. Measures to combat emissions include switching to renewable energies, energy efficiency, sustainable land use and the protection of forests. International agreements such as the Paris Agreement aim to steer the global community towards a sustainable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and limit warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.