Carbon emissions

Definition

Carbon emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere through human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. These emissions contribute to climate change and global warming.

Analogy

Think of carbon emissions as the smoke coming out of a car's exhaust pipe. Just like the smoke pollutes the air around us, carbon emissions pollute our planet's atmosphere.

Related terms

Greenhouse gases: These are gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and causing global warming.

Fossil fuels: These are non-renewable energy sources formed from ancient organic materials such as coal, oil, and natural gas. When burned, they release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Climate change: Refers to long-term shifts in temperature patterns and weather conditions due to factors like increased greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.