Cutting emissions is a global effort, not just the work of a single community. Yet, the fight against greenhouse gas emissions also relies on the small, individual steps we can take at home.

Understanding Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Greenhouse gas emissions drive climate change. Unfortunately, we can all relate to this because they trigger a series of changes that cause the severe weather events we’ve witnessed lately, from hurricanes and heavy rainfall to heat waves and droughts.

What gases are responsible for all this, and where do they come from?

• Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most prevalent greenhouse gas. The increase in atmospheric CO2 levels is primarily due to burning fossil fuels. Industrial activities and our massive energy use contribute heavily to CO2 emissions, mainly through the demand for electricity and heating.
• Methane (CH4) accounts for about 30% of global temperature increases since the Industrial Revolution. The sources of methane are diverse, with natural sources contributing to approximately 40% of the emissions and human activities being responsible for the remaining 60%. Agriculture is the leading contributor of methane emissions, followed closely by the energy sector.
• Nitrous oxide (N2O) is emitted from burning fossil fuels and solid waste in agricultural and industrial activities.
• Fluorinated gases used in various industrial applications have a high global warming potential.

Why is reducing greenhouse gas emissions necessary?

The buildup of greenhouse gases disrupts ecosystems, affects water supplies, and threatens food security. Rising sea levels can destroy coastal communities and low-lying areas, potentially displacing millions of people, damaging infrastructure, and causing economic losses.

Another issue is that CO2 is absorbed by the oceans, leading to ocean acidification. It mainly affects corals and some shellfish, impacting marine ecosystems and those who rely on them.

The effects of climate change and air pollution related to GHG emissions also pose direct and indirect health risks. These include respiratory and cardiovascular diseases due to poor air quality, heat-related illnesses, and the spread of diseases transmitted through water and insects.