CO₂ Emissions

CO₂ emissions are the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, primarily through human activities.

CO₂ emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide into the Earth's atmosphere, which is primarily caused by the combustion of fossil fuels, industrial processes, and transportation activities. This colorless and odorless gas is significant as a greenhouse gas because it contributes significantly to global warming.

CO₂ is generated from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Natural sources include the respiration processes of living beings, volcanic activities, and the decomposition of organic materials. In contrast, the overwhelming majority of CO₂ emissions result from human activities. In Germany, over 90 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions are CO₂-based, with the largest share attributed to the energy sector.

The importance of CO₂ for climate change cannot be underestimated, as it traps heat in the Earth's atmosphere, thereby enhancing the greenhouse effect. This increase in CO₂ concentration has resulted in natural sinks, such as forests and oceans, being unable to adequately absorb emissions, exacerbating the climate crisis.

The development of CO₂ emissions shows a differentiated trend. In Germany, emissions have been significantly reduced since 1990, with a decrease of approximately 46 percent expected by 2024. This success is attributed to significant advances in energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies. Nevertheless, measures to reduce global emissions must be intensified to achieve international climate goals.