What are the natural sources of greenhouse gases?

Biological processes naturally release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. For example, carbon dioxide is produced by the decomposition of organic matter and living organisms, while bacteria found in soil and marine environments produce nitrous oxide during processes such as nitrification. Methane, another important greenhouse gas, is released by biological processes in wetlands and from animal sources, such as the digestive processes of elephants or cattle. In addition, atmospheric water vapor, which is tiny water droplets in the air, contributes to the greenhouse effect, increasing the atmosphere's ability to trap heat.

Throughout Earth's geological history, greenhouse gases have played a vital role in maintaining temperatures suitable for the development and existence of life. These gases, such as CO2 and methane, contributed to the creation of a stable climate that allowed for diverse ecosystems.

Today, however, human activities, including the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and intensive agriculture, have caused an unprecedented increase in greenhouse gas levels. Since the industrial revolution, there has been a dramatic increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere; for example, carbon dioxide levels have increased by more than 40 % compared to pre-industrial values. This increase is also accompanied by climate change, which manifests itself in extreme weather events, rising sea levels and changes in biodiversity.

According to climate change experts, current levels of greenhouse gases are the highest they have been in 800,000 years, with serious consequences for ecosystems and human society. If effective strategies to reduce emissions and transition to more sustainable forms of energy are not implemented by climate change psychologists, we could face increasingly complicated environmental problems, including species extinction, increased food insecurity, and threats to health security. (Co2AI)