Science Common Sense

890 - How do human activities contribute to increased carbon emissions?

There are a few main ways that human activities contribute to increased carbon emissions.

1. Burning Fossil Fuels: We use fossil fuels like coal, gas, and oil to generate electricity, power our cars, and run our homes. When we burn these fuels, they release carbon dioxide into the air.

2. Deforestation: Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the air, but when we cut them down to build new roads or homes, it's like removing a filter from the air.

3. Agriculture: Farming and raising animals also release carbon into the air. For example, cows produce methane gas, which contributes to global warming.

4. Waste and Garbage: When trash decomposes in landfills, it releases methane and carbon dioxide into the air.

By reducing our use of fossil fuels and protecting our forests, we can decrease our carbon footprint and help our planet.