Carbon emissions are the sum of fossil fuel combustion and land use change that sends heat-trapping gases into the atmosphere. These pollutants allow the sun’s infrared radiation to pass through Earth and warm its surface, creating global warming.
Human activities are the primary source of rising CO2 levels, with coal and oil burning leading the way. Other sources include deforestation, biomass combustion, and emissions from shipping and aviation. Countries are reducing their CO2 emissions through policies and international agreements that set targets and foster accountability.
All living things on Earth contain carbon. Plants absorb it through photosynthesis and release oxygen, while animals respire. This cycle, along with slow geologic processes, has kept carbon cycling in and out of the air over long periods of time.
Adding human activity to the carbon cycle has led to a steady rise in atmospheric CO2. In addition, human emissions also cause other climate changes such as extreme storms, floods, droughts, and heat waves. Lowering CO2 in the atmosphere will reduce these harmful effects.
Educating people about climate change fosters cultural shifts towards a lower carbon footprint. Policies that put a price on carbon incentivize businesses to reduce their emissions and adopt renewable energy sources.
Keeping global temperatures below 2°C requires an effort from nations around the world to reduce CO2 emissions. Increasingly, governments are working together at all levels to implement effective climate policies and agreements. However, achieving these goals is not easy. Major energy using industries and regional political interests often oppose climate taxes, claiming they will raise prices and diminish competitiveness. These obstacles require careful balancing of multiple objectives to create an efficient and fair system.
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