Causes of Climate Change
Find out what is causing changes to our climate.
Climate change is caused by excessive amounts of greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide and methane) in the atmosphere. The greenhouse gases collect in the atmosphere and trap heat that would normally exit into space.
Burning fossil fuels is
the main source of excess greenhouse gases. We release carbon dioxide
and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere by driving cars and
using electricity from coal-fired power plants. Coal-burning power plants are the
largest U.S. source of carbon dioxide pollution, producing 2.5 billion
tons every year.
Deforestation and agricultural activities, such as raising cattle, are other significant contributors of global warming.
Action on global warming is critical because, if left unchecked, our quality of life and the great outdoors that we love will be compromised, including the following:
- Our pristine, cold waters that support great fishing
- Our cold snowy winters that are great for skiing and help sustain healthy, more fire-resistant forests throughout the summer
- Our abundant wildlife that depend on regularity in the seasonal changes
- Fuel and energy security that we can rely on for our current and future needs
