Why is lowering atmospheric carbon dioxide important?
Historically, scientists have found that increased levels of carbon dioxide invariably correspond to increased global surface temperatures. When fossil fuels are combusted, the carbon they contain combines with oxygen in the atmosphere to form large quantities of carbon dioxide. As an example, carbon dioxide emissions vary by coal type, but even relatively clean-burning coals produce approximately 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide for every ton of coal burned. By combusting fossil fuels and other non-renewable fuels, we are continually adding to the net volume of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and thus contributing to the buildup of greenhouse gases.
