Chapter 2: The Rise of CO₂ Emissions

Over the last few centuries, human industrial activities have significantly increased the concentration of CO₂ in the atmosphere. CO₂ is a key greenhouse gas that traps heat in the Earth's atmosphere, contributing to the overall warming of the planet.

The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and various other human activities have led to a sharp rise in CO₂ levels. The graph below illustrates the exponential growth of CO₂ emissions over time, highlighting key historical moments.

The trend shows a worrying increase, particularly since the mid-20th century. In 1950, global CO₂ emissions were approximately 6.5 billion tons, and by 2020, that figure surged to around 38.2 billion tons. This dramatic rise is largely attributed to industrialization and increased energy consumption.

Addressing this trend is crucial for mitigating climate change. Strategies such as transitioning to renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and implementing carbon capture technologies can help reduce emissions and combat global warming.

Furthermore, international agreements like the Paris Accord aim to limit global temperature rise by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Individual actions, community initiatives, and governmental policies all play vital roles in tackling this global challenge.