Why is the atmospheric carbon dioxide on the rise?

Answer 1

1. Deforestation, which removes the trees that used to soak up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
2. Burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) in industry, transport and the generation of electricity, which releases carbon dioxide (CO2).

Atmospheric carbon dioxide is certainly on the rise. From 1970 the level rose by about 1.5 parts per million each year. However, since 2000 the annual rise is averaging 2.1 ppm.

Scientists suggest this might mean that the Earth is losing its ability to soak up its normal billions of tons of carbon each year through its forests and oceans.

Answer 2

The main reason for the rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide is the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas, which releases large amounts of CO2 into the air. Deforestation and other land use changes also contribute to the increase in carbon dioxide by reducing the capacity of forests and vegetation to absorb it.