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What are the causes of global warming and what do we need to do to reduce it?
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The primary cause of global warming is the human-induced release of carbon dioxide and other Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat and prevent it from escaping Earth's atmosphere, causing temperatures to rise. The burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas is the primary source of these emissions, both through power plants and vehicles. 2 To reduce global warming and its effects, we need to reduce emissions of GHGs. This can be done by replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydropower, as well as through energy efficiency measures such as insulating buildings to reduce the need for heating and cooling. We can also reduce emissions by reducing deforestation and restoring forests, since trees absorb and store carbon dioxide. Other measures include investing in carbon capture technology and using biofuels.