Carbon Cycling

Carbon cycling is the process by which carbon atoms move through the Earth’s systems—the atmosphere, oceans, land, and living organisms. It is a vital process that helps to regulate the Earth’s climate and supports life on the planet.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. It is released into the atmosphere through human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, and through natural processes, such as volcanic eruptions and forest fires.

The ocean absorbs about 30% of the CO2 released into the atmosphere. The rest is absorbed by land plants and soil. Plants use CO2 for photosynthesis, the process by which they convert sunlight into energy. They release oxygen into the atmosphere as a byproduct of photosynthesis.

Animals consume plants, and the carbon that was stored in the plants is passed up the food chain. When animals die, their bodies decompose, and the carbon is released back into the atmosphere or soil.

Carbon can also be stored in long-term reservoirs, such as coal, oil, and gas. These reservoirs were formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that were buried and converted to fossil fuels over millions of years.

Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, are disrupting the carbon cycle. By releasing large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere, we are increasing the amount of greenhouse gases and contributing to climate change.

We can help to mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing our emissions of CO2. We can do this by using energy more efficiently, switching to renewable energy sources, and planting trees.