---
title: "Emissions — AP Environmental Science Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Emissions are pollutants released into the atmosphere, mostly from burning fossil fuels. In AP Enviro, they're the classic tragedy-of-the-commons example."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-enviro/key-terms/emissions"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Environmental Science"
---

# Emissions — AP Environmental Science Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Emissions refer to the release or discharge of pollutants into the atmosphere, often resulting from human activities such as burning fossil fuels or industrial processes.

## Related Study Guides

- [5.1 The Tragedy of the Commons](/ap-enviro/unit-5/tragedy-commons/study-guide/Z8Wf2Jss12YWRtYa7Qk8)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Greenhouse gases (GHGs): Gases that trap heat in Earth's atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
- Carbon footprint: The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, or product.
- Air quality: The measure of pollutants present in the air and their impact on human health and the environment.