3. Nitrous oxide (N2O) accounts for around 8% of current human greenhouse gas emissions. Nitrous oxide is up to 300 times more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide.
Artificial fertilisers are the biggest source of nitrous oxide in the atmosphere. These are chemicals added to the soil to make it more fertile. They increase the release of nitrous oxide into the atmosphere.
Increasing global energy demands have led to greater emissions from coal-burning energy plants. This generates more nitrous oxide emissions.
We can all play an important role in tackling climate change. Using a carbon calculator can help us to reduce our carbon count number (also known as carbon footprint) and to take responsibility for our greenhouse gas emissions. Search online for ‘carbon footprint calculator’. Use the carbon calculator to find out your carbon footprint and discover what changes you can make to improve it.
Question Time 1. What is the greenhouse effect?
2. Using a diagram, illustrate the difference between the natural greenhouse effect and the greenhouse effect intensified by humans.
3. Outline the main sources of each of the following greenhouse gases: (a) Carbon dioxide (CO2)