¿Qué es el efecto invernadero? | Sostenibilidad - ACCIONA
Understanding the Greenhouse Effect
What is the Greenhouse Effect?
- The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon that allows Earth to maintain conditions necessary for life. The atmosphere captures some of the sun's rays, keeping them within to achieve an average temperature of 15 degrees Celsius.
Consequences of No Greenhouse Effect
- If the atmosphere did not trap any rays reflecting off the Earth's surface, the average temperature would drop to -18 degrees Celsius, making it inhospitable for life.
Composition of the Atmosphere
- The atmosphere consists mainly of natural gases: nitrogen, oxygen, and argon make up 99.93% of its composition. However, other gases like water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and ozone significantly impact the greenhouse effect.
Human Impact on Greenhouse Gases
- Artificial gases such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are also present in the atmosphere. While they serve their purpose at appropriate levels, increased concentrations due to human activity lead to excessive heat retention and rising temperatures. This results in polar ice melting and various environmental issues like desertification and extreme weather events.
Main Causes of Increased Greenhouse Gases
- Three primary reasons contribute to rising greenhouse gas levels:
- Burning fossil fuels (oil, coal, natural gas).
- Deforestation.