Impact of Greenhouse Gases on Climate Change

Greenhouse Gases (GHG)

Gases trapping heat in Earth's atmosphere.

Anthropogenic

Resulting from human influence or activities.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Most significant GHG, primarily from fossil fuels.

Methane (CH4)

Produced by livestock, landfills, and natural gas.

Nitrous Oxide (N2O)

Emitted from livestock waste and nitrogen fertilizers.

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

Industrial chemicals leaking from refrigeration systems.

Carbon Sink

Natural systems absorbing more carbon than released.

Positive Feedback Loop

Process where increased CO2 raises temperatures further.

Industrial Revolution

Period marking significant increase in GHG emissions.

Global Temperature Rise

Average temperature increase due to GHG emissions.

Thermal Expansion

Water expands when heated, contributing to sea level rise.

Glacier Melt

Melting ice contributing to rising sea levels.

Ecosystem Changes

Alterations in species behavior due to climate shifts.

Computer Modelling

Simulations to study climate impacts of GHGs.

Natural Changes

Climate variations not influenced by human activity.

Anthropogenic Changes

Climate variations resulting from human activities.

Canadian GHG Emissions

Canada ranks among top GHG emitters globally.

Deforestation

Tree removal increasing CO2 emissions and reducing sinks.

Wildfires

Natural events releasing CO2 into the atmosphere.

Insect Damage

Tree-killing insects increasing CO2 through decomposition.

Rising Sea Levels

Increased water volume from melting ice and thermal expansion.

Changing Precipitation Patterns

Shift towards more rain and less snow in regions.

Species Migration

Animals and plants moving to cooler areas.

Heat Waves

Increased frequency of extreme temperature events.

Hurricanes

Intensified storms due to warmer ocean temperatures.

Glacial Dependency

Half the population reliant on glacier melt for water.

Carbon Source

Systems releasing more carbon than they absorb.

Climate Change Evidence

Data showing human impact on Earth's climate.