Earth’s global temperature has been increasing at a critical rate due to rapidly increasing emissions of greenhouse gas in the atmosphere. According to studies done by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), human activities are the main cause.

The Main Causes of Greenhouse Gas Emissions

The number one source of carbon emissions is fossil fuel burned for transportation. Most Americans own cars and use them constantly in day-to-day life, releasing an average of 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide in one year. Planes, trains, and ships also emit massive amounts of greenhouse gas, yet are used regularly.

The production of electricity, mostly through appliances, is another massive contributing factor. In a world of constant technological advancements, more and more fossil fuels are burned to produce electricity, releasing exponential amounts of greenhouse gases.

In addition, the industrial burning of fossil fuels for energy is the third leading cause of carbon emissions. Producing goods from raw materials through manufacturing releases greenhouse gases, due to the chemical reactions. Other causes include heat and lighting for buildings, livestock emissions, and land use.

The Carbon Footprint

As shown above, the increase in carbon emissions can mainly be attributed to human activities. However, everyone can and should contribute to limiting emissions, by reducing their carbon footprint. A carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gas generated by one person and their actions. One’s carbon footprint is affected by their use of transportation, electricity, water, and even their diet.

Reducing Your Own Carbon Footprint

Contrary to popular belief, global warming causes irreversible negative effects on all life on earth, including humans. To slow and limit global warming, each person has to contribute. There are numerous ways, both large and small, that you can reduce your own carbon footprint.

One major way you can limit your greenhouse gas emissions is simply by getting some exercise in. Rather than driving to work or school every day, try walking. Instead of always using the elevator, take the stairs. Even though these tasks may take up more time, you reduce your own effect on fossil fuel burning significantly.

In addition, you can keep your household electricity use to a minimum. During the day, utilize natural illumination instead of turning on the lights, and make sure to turn off all lights when leaving a room. Even switching the type of lightbulb you use makes a difference. Fluorescent bulbs use 75% less energy than incandescent ones, and even last longer. Also, instead of using air conditioning, opt for cracking open a window. Taking shorter showers and turning off the faucet while brushing are easy contributions that have large benefits, both for the environment and your water bill.

One large change that can be made to decrease your carbon footprint is a switch in diet. Eating meat, especially beef, significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. If you aren’t able to give up meat entirely, try having one vegetarian day a week. This saves almost 100 kilograms of carbon dioxide per year.

Global warming is a very real issue, and every one of your actions makes a difference. Whether you are contributing towards climate change or fighting against it is up to you, and the choices you make.

SOURCES:

https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions

https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/global-co2-emissions/