Climate Change

The Greenhouse Effect

The Earth’s atmosphere naturally traps some heat from the sun, keeping our planet warm enough for life. This is the natural greenhouse effect. However, human activities have dramatically increased the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, trapping more heat and causing global temperatures to rise.

Key Greenhouse Gases

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂): Released by burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas), deforestation, and industrial processes. It is the most abundant long-lived greenhouse gas.
• Methane (CH₄): Around 80 times more potent than CO₂ over 20 years. Major sources: livestock farming (enteric fermentation), landfill, and natural gas leaks.
• Nitrous oxide (N₂O): Released by agricultural fertilisers and industrial processes. Nearly 300 times more potent than CO₂.

The Biggest Impact You Can Have

While renewable energy, electric cars, and recycling are all important, the single biggest change an individual can make is to shift towards a plant-rich diet. Animal agriculture is responsible for more greenhouse gas emissions than the entire transport sector combined.