The trapping of heat by gases in the atmosphere (CO2, methane, water vapour), warming the planet. Essential for life but enhanced by human emissions.
climateWhat is Greenhouse Effect?
The natural greenhouse effect keeps Earth about 33°C warmer than it would otherwise be, making it habitable. Human activities (burning fossil fuels, deforestation) have increased CO2 concentrations by over 50% since pre-industrial times, enhancing the greenhouse effect and causing global warming. Southeast Asia is one of the regions most vulnerable to the consequences: rising sea levels, more intense typhoons, and disrupted monsoon patterns.
Key points
- The trapping of heat by gases in the atmosphere (CO2, methane, water vapour), warming the planet. Essential for life but enhanced by human emissions.
- Category: climate
Related terms
See also: greenhouse-effect is connected to other weather concepts. Browse the full glossary for related definitions.