The greenhouse effect occurs when gases in the atmosphere like carbon dioxide trap heat from the sun, warming the planet. Global warming is an increase in average temperatures due to human activities that release greenhouse gases. As greenhouse gas levels rise from fossil fuel use, deforestation, waste, and industrial emissions, the climate changes with consequences like rising seas, more extreme weather, and desertification, threatening coastal cities and ecosystems. Reducing energy use, transitioning to renewables, and increasing forestation can help mitigate the effects of climate change.

1. Greenhouse effect & Global warming
Our planet’s heating system
The earth is surrounded by a blanket of gases that we call the Atmosphere. It is made
up of-
 78% Nitrogen
 21% Oxygen
 Other 1% is made up of other gases incl. CO2
The Greenhouse effect
The sun sends short-wave energy through the atmosphere to the earth.
The earth’s surface then deflects back long-wave energy back into the atmosphere
but not all can get out which is why some heat remains.
This is called the greenhouse effect because the atmosphere acts like a greenhouse
around our planet. We need this heat in order to survive.
Global warming

2. This is seen as one of the biggest challenges that has ever faced humanity. It may
cause death and destruction on a massive scale, and human activities may be to
blame for it.
Human activities are producing lots of Greenhouse Gases such as Carbon Dioxide,
Methane and CFC’s. These gases trap more of the sun’s heat and are causing our
atmosphere to get warmer.
What activities?
 Burning fossil fuels like coal, Oil and gas.
 Cutting down forests that get rid of Co2 and produce oxygen
 More household waste that produces methane
 Produce CFC’s from plastics and fridges
CfC’s destroy the Ozone layer which protects us from the harmful Uv rays that
cause skin cancer.
Likely effects of Global warming
 Rising sea levels
 Climate change
 Increased desertification
How Ireland might be affected
 More extreme weather
 Flood low lying areas (Dublin, Cork and Galway city centres)
 North Atlantic drift might shut off
What can we do

3.  Conserve energy
 Use renewable energy
 Plant more trees