HKDSE Geography/M7/Human Factors in Global Warming

Numerous human factors lead to global warming. Carbon dioxide The main greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide is generated in the following situations: Burning of fossil fuels: The burning of coal, oil and natural gas Burning of petroleum-based fuels by transport: The combustion of fuel for transport, such as aeroplanes and land vehicles Forest fires: Forests are important carbon sinks and carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere by forest fires. Incinerators: Carbon dioxide is produced when burning solid waste in incinerators. Methane Livestock rearing: Rearing of livestock, particularly cattle ranching, produces methane. Wet rice cultivation Decomposition of solid waste in landfills Fossil fuel and biofuel combustion also causes methane release Nitrous oxide Use of nitrate fertilisers in arable farming: When nitrate fertilisers are decomposed in soil, nitrous oxide is released. Fossil fuel combustion Combustion of solid waste in incinerators Nylon production Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) Air conditioning and refrigeration Aerosol sprays Cleaning solvents Styrofoam