What is it? How is it caused? Global Warming What is it? How is it caused?

The “Greenhouse Effect” The Earth is warmed during the day by incoming radiation from the sun. The Earth loses heat at night through outgoing infrared radiation. Over a lengthy period of time, because there is a balance between incoming and outgoing radiation, the Earth’s temperatures remain constant.

The “Greenhouse Effect”

Causes of Global Warming Carbon dioxide is the most important single factor in global warming. It is produced by road vehicles and by burning fossil fuels in power stations, in factories and in the home.

Causes of Global Warming A secondary source of carbon dioxide is deforestation and the burning of the tropical rainforests. CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) from aerosols, air conditioners, foam packaging and refrigerators are the most damaging of the greenhouse gases. Nitrous oxide is emitted from car exhausts, power stations and agricultural fertiliser. Methane is released from decaying organic matter such as pet bogs, swamps, animal dung and farms.

Causes of Global Warming Since the More Economically Developed Countries consume three-quarters of the world’s energy, they are largely responsible for global warming. Are they? Is this a fair reflection?

Main Greenhouse Gas Emitters

Increased Carbon Dioxide Emissions