Energy and the Environment

Greenhouse effect

As greenhouse gases build up, more of
the Sun's energy is becoming trapped
in the Earth's atmosphere, causing
global warming

We burn fossil fuels like gas, coal or oil to create heat and electricity for our homes, offices and factories. This releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which magnify the Earth's greenhouse effect and cause global warming. The impacts will be severe if we continue burning fossil fuels at current rates. Renewable energy replaces fossil fuels and is one way of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Some impacts of global warming:

  • Weather patterns could change, resulting in more hurricanes, droughts, floods and forest fires
  • Melting ice sheets will cause sea levels to rise. This could cause low-lying land to flood permanently – including many parts of the UK
  • Shifting climate patterns could cause sub-tropical pests and diseases to occur more commonly in the UK.

By taking a few simple steps, you can reduce your energy use, and do your bit to reduce environmental impacts of fossil fuels.

Now find out more about...