Environmental Issues in Northern Ontario
Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs)
The three main greenhouse gases that are
increasing because of our human activities are carbon dioxide, nitrous
oxide, and methane.
Carbon dioxide (C02) is released into the atmosphere through natural
processes of plant and animal life and through human activities, mainly
the burning of fossil fuels and other materials. It is the main
contributor to climate change.
Methane (CH4) is not as abundant as carbon dioxide, but it is a powerful
greenhouse gas and more effective at trapping heat. It is created when
vegetation is burned, digested or rotted in an oxygen-free environment.
Wetlands, rice paddies, animal digestive processes and decaying garbage
are the greatest source of methane in our atmosphere.
Nitrous Oxide (N2O) occurs naturally in the environment, but human
activities are increasing the quantities. Nitrous oxide is released when
chemical fertilizers and manure are used in agriculture.
Canada's goal under the Kyoto Protocol is to reduce its greenhouse gas
emissions to 6 per cent below 1990 levels by the year 2012. Since our
emissions have risen from the early 1990's, achieving this goal means
that we must reduce our GHG emissions by about 26% from where we are
today.
The average Canadian produces more than 5 tonnes of GHG emissions per
year from energy use. Together, we account for about one-quarter of
Canada's emissions, so achieving our Kyoto target means that we all need
to make changes to our lifestyles and the way we use energy.
Governments, industry and communities are being asked to do their part,
and so can we.
