Land InsituteHome

Learn More

We can become more energy secure.
By developing renewable energy sustainably and using less fossil fuels, the U.S. can increase its security.
Got any bright ideas?
If you have opinions on climate and energy issues, let your legislators know.

Receive CEP news & events info in your inbox. Enter your email address & sign up today!

carbon regulation cep news climate change coal energy efficiency energy policy green jobs greenhouse gases kansas policy renewable energy wind

Contact Us | Blog | CEP Projects | Who We Are |
What are greenhouse gases? Why do they matter?
Browse by category
Greenhouse gases are gases in the earth’s atmosphere that trap solar radiation and keep it from reflecting back into space. Greenhouse gases are important because when they build up in the atmosphere, they trap heat and warm up the earth (also see greenhouse effect), a process known as global warming. Global warming leads to climate change.

There are many different kinds of greenhouse gases – carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, various fluorinated gases, water vapor, etc. Many greenhouse gases also occur naturally. However, recent human activities have shifted their balance in the atmosphere.

During the past two hundred years or so since industrialization, humans have generated and circulated far vaster quantities of GHGs than normally existed in natural processes like the carbon cycle. In particular, these gases result from the burning of fossil fuels.
» Return to FAQs
» Climate Change
» Renewable Energy
» Take Action
» Use Energy Wisely
 Back To Top
Print Email
Approximately two-thirds of the world’s population (along with critical infrastructure such as transportation routes, energy processing facilities, and major urban centers) are located near coastlines. All face significant threats from sea level rise.
CNA, “National Security and the Threat of Climate Change,” http://securityandclimate.cna.org/
Copyright © Climate + Energy Project, 2012
Website by: Digital Evolution Group