Greenhouse Gases (GHG)
A greenhouse gas (GHG) is a gaseous substance such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), or nitrous oxide (N₂O) that traps heat in the atmosphere, thereby enhancing the natural greenhouse effect. This contributes to global warming and impacts the Earth's climate.
Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gaseous compounds that retain heat in the Earth's atmosphere, driving the greenhouse effect. This natural phenomenon ensures the planet maintains a habitable temperature. However, human activities like burning fossil fuels, agriculture, and industrial processes have significantly increased the concentration of greenhouse gases, intensifying global warming.
Key greenhouse gases include:
- Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): The primary contributor, produced through the combustion of coal, oil, and gas.
- Methane (CH₄): Released from agriculture, livestock farming, and waste management.
- Nitrous Oxide (N₂O): Primarily emitted from agricultural fertilizers.
- Fluorinated Gases: Synthetic industrial gases with potent climate impacts.
Greenhouse gases are measured in CO₂ equivalents (CO₂e) to compare their respective climate impacts. The rise in atmospheric GHG concentrations contributes to global challenges like climate change, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events.
