Because pollution has such a significant impact on our lives, its existence is an opportunity.
When one experiences the truth underlying Pollution, one realizes that the ordinarily unnoticed laws that determine the persistence of Pollution on this planet are precisely the laws that keep the world from working.
One realizes that the principles of a zero-pollution solution within 25 years are necessary to make our world work.
Commit
Causes
Burning Fossil Fuels
For electricity and heat generation (coal, natural gas, and oil). Largest source of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions globally.
Transportation
Use of gasoline and diesel in cars, trucks, ships, airplanes, and trains. Emissions include CO₂ and nitrous oxides.
Industry
Cement, steel, and chemical production release large quantities of CO₂ and other greenhouse gases (GHGs). Energy use in factories contributes to fossil fuel emissions.
Deforestation
Clearing forests for agriculture, logging, or development reduces CO₂ absorption and releases stored carbon.
Agriculture
Livestock production emits methane (CH₄), a potent GHG. Fertilizers release nitrous oxide (N₂O), another high-impact GHG.
Waste Management
Landfills release methane as organic waste decomposes. Incineration of waste emits CO₂.
Residential & Commercial Energy Use
Heating, cooling, and powering buildings with fossil fuels. Indirect emissions from electricity consumption.
Oil & Gas Production
Methane leaks during extraction, processing, and transport of fossil fuels. Flaring (burning of excess gas) releases CO₂.
Land Use Change
Urbanization and conversion of wetlands and grasslands to farmland or cities.
Energy Losses
Inefficient energy use in transmission and appliances increases fossil fuel consumption.
Aerosols and Black Carbon
Aerosols and Black Carbon Emissions from burning biomass, diesel, and coal contribute to atmospheric warming. Black carbon particles absorb heat and reduce ice/snow reflectivity.
Shippping
Large container ships burn heavy fuel oil, producing CO₂, black carbon, and sulfur dioxide.
Mining
Extraction of metals and minerals requires energy and can lead to deforestation and soil degradation.
Permafrost Thawing
Releases methane and CO₂ as frozen organic matter decomposes.
Water Use in Energy Production
Power plants require large amounts of water, indirectly affecting ecosystems and GHGs.
Refrigerants
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in cooling systems are potent GHGs.
Wildfires
Release large quantities of CO₂ and aerosols while reducing carbon absorption.
Consumer Goods
Production and disposal of goods (plastics, electronics, textiles) contribute to emissions.
Global Trade
Transportation and production for exports lead to increased emissions.
Population Growth
Increases energy, food, and goods demand, amplifying other contributors.
Key GHGs
Carbon Dioxide
From fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.
Fluorinated Gases
From industrial and refrigerant applications.
Methane
From agriculture, landfills, and fossil fuels.
Nitrous Oxide
From fertilizers and industrial activities.