What’s Up with Greenhouse Gasses?

Usually when talking about global warming the term “greenhouse gases” comes up, but there has been some recent confusion as to what they are and why they are important. Greenhouse gases or (GHGs) are the gases that are present in the Earth’s atmosphere that warm near surface global temperatures through the greenhouse effect. Basically they are what warms our planet, and with a lack of…cools it down.

Since around 1750 the global warming caused by human activity has been documented. Currently the natural source of carbon dioxide is 20 times greater than before due to human activity alone. It is very important to note however that without greenhouse gases to warm our planet we would be at unbearable conditions and could not live here due to extreme cold weather. Our planet actually uses the gases to heat itself to a humanly sustainable condition. The problem is not necessarily the greenhouses gases, but the excess amount we have created. Earth is now warming faster than ever predicted and people are wondering what is happening and how we can prevent it. Planets such as Venus are mostly unlivable due to extreme temperatures, Venus’ being around 900 degrees F.

Yearly Greenhouse Emissions Sources by Percent

Waste Treatment and Disposal = 3.5%
Biomass Burning and Land Use = 10%
Commercial, Residential, and Other Sources = 10.5%
Fossil Fuels = 11.5%
Agricultural Byproducts = 12.5%
Transportation Fuels = 14%
Industrial Processes = 17%
Power Stations = 21%

The biggest question you should have is what is causing all these greenhouse gases which are creating this excess? Above is a list of the main causes of greenhouse gases globally and annually. Some of the causes may not surprise you, but the fact that 36-66% of the yearly greenhouse gases come from a natural source–water vapor from the oceans and lakes should. This is why it is also key to always remember the importance of our lakes, rivers and oceans. Keeping our Earth clean is the way to make an everyday difference. Don’t forget you can always do something to help.