The greenhouse effect occurs when greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat from the sun similarly to how glass panels in a greenhouse work. Some of the sunlight's energy is absorbed by the Earth and then radiated back as heat, but greenhouse gases prevent this heat from fully escaping, causing the planet to warm up over time. The main causes of the greenhouse effect are large amounts of greenhouse gases released from fossil fuel usage and lack of energy conservation. Effects include rising global temperatures, climate change, sea level rise, and increased pollution. Possible solutions involve individual actions like saving energy at home, reducing car usage, and limiting pollution.