Growing Carbon:Reducing the Greenhouse Effect |
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As a natural part of the Earth's atmosphere,
greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, trap heat in much the
same way that glass traps heat in a greenhouse.
Greenhouse gases are necessary, because without
them the Earth's climate would be too cold for agriculture.
Unfortunately, people are increasing the amount of
these gases in the atmosphere by burning coal, oil, and natural
gas to heat their homes, power their cars, and run
machinery. And, other activities, such as manufacturing and
producing cement, also release greenhouse gases.
The accumulation of these gases in the atmosphere
is likely to cause changes in temperature, rain, snowfall, and
other aspects of the climate.
It is not possible to predict exactly what the
effects of these changes may bring, but if we don't take steps to
reduce the release of greenhouse gases, we will surely find out.
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What
can be done?
One way we can reduce the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere is by producing "biofuels" as a substitute for fossil fuels. Plant material can be burned to generate energy or it can be converted into fuels. Potential biofuels include traditional agricultural crops (such as corn and soybeans), dedicated biofuel crops (such as switchgrass and short-rotation trees), and by-products of food and fiber processing. The benefit of growing trees is twofold: trees produce an acceptable fuel substitute, and they also serve as carbon sinks. Carbon is taken in by a young tree and fresh clean oxygen is released. |
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Information provided by the US Department of Agriculture |
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