Greenhouse Gases (GHG)

A greenhouse gas (GHG) is a gaseous substance such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), or nitrous oxide (N₂O) that traps heat in the atmosphere, thereby enhancing the natural greenhouse effect. This contributes to global warming and impacts the Earth's climate.

Greenhouse gases (GHG) are chemical compounds in the Earth's atmosphere capable of absorbing and re-emitting infrared radiation. This function is essential for the natural greenhouse effect, which keeps the Earth warm enough to support life. However, human activities, especially since the industrial revolution, have led to a significant increase in the concentrations of these gases, contributing to global warming and drastic climate changes.

The main greenhouse gases include water vapor (H₂O), which primarily acts as a feedback mechanism; carbon dioxide (CO₂), which is released from the combustion of fossil fuels and deforestation; methane (CH₄), which is produced in agriculture and waste disposal; as well as nitrous oxide (N₂O), which is emitted from the use of synthetic fertilizers. Additionally, there are fluorinated gases like HFCs and SF₆, which, despite their low presence, possess extremely high global warming potentials. For example, SF₆ is about 23,000 times more potent than CO₂.

The impacts of greenhouse gases are severe. Since the beginning of industrial activities, the CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere has increased by more than 50%, leading to a temperature rise of over 1°C compared to pre-industrial times. These changes have far-reaching consequences, including rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and ocean acidification. Therefore, reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial for mitigating future climate impacts and protecting global ecosystems.