Britannica AI Icon

carbon emission

pollution
Also known as: CO2 emission, carbon dioxide emission

Quick Summary

Carbon emissions are a primary driver of pollution and climate change. The burning of fossil fuels like coal, petroleum, and natural gas releases greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, creating a greenhouse effect that leads to global warming and alters climate patterns. Activities such as deforestation, fracking, and mining also contribute to increased greenhouse gas emissions. International agreements, like the Paris Agreement, aim to reduce these emissions by setting targets for countries to limit their greenhouse gas output. A carbon tax is one economic tool used to incentivize businesses to lower their carbon emissions by making them pay for the pollution they create.12345

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.