What are greenhouse gases, and why are they important?
Greenhouse gases are naturally part of our air. They help trap heat in our planet, much the same way glass traps heat in a greenhouse. Without them, Earth would be much colder.
The problem now is that we have added too many greenhouse gases to the air, which is trapping too much heat. The main one is Carbon Dioxide, also known as CO2.
Doesn’t the climate change naturally?
Yes. But usually over very, very long periods of time. Which allows time for life to adapt.
The last few thousand years or so have been relatively stable, allowing humans to settle down, develop things like farming, and build societies. The changes that are happening now are happening fast by comparison, and are due to greenhouse gases from human activity.
What are fossil fuels, and what’s the problem?
Oil, coal, and gas are called fossil fuels because they are carbon which has been buried for millions of years. When we burn them they make Carbon Dioxide (CO2).
The problem is that it has taken millions of years to store this carbon underground. But we have been releasing it much, much quicker.
Where can I find out more?
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