Global warming occurs when greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane trap heat in the atmosphere, causing the earth's temperature to rise rapidly. This temperature change hurts many plants, animals, and people who cannot adapt. The greenhouse effect is a natural process that makes the Earth habitable, but too many greenhouse gases can make the planet unusually warm and destroy life. Global warming is caused by pollution from burning fossil fuels which release greenhouse gases into the air. It is affecting the environment by raising sea levels and destroying forests, islands, and ecosystems.