When we release carbon into the atmosphere through activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation, the carbon undergoes various pathways within the Earth’s systems. A significant portion remains in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming.
The world’s oceans serve as a substantial carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide and undergoing ocean acidification. Terrestrial ecosystems play a role as plants absorb carbon during photosynthesis, but land-use changes can release stored carbon back into the atmosphere.
Soil and vegetation also store carbon, and disturbances like deforestation release this carbon. Fossil fuel combustion releases carbon that was sequestered underground over millions of years.
The intricate carbon cycle involves complex interactions between the atmosphere, oceans, terrestrial ecosystems, and fossil fuel reservoirs, with human activities influencing this delicate balance and contributing to climate change. Efforts to mitigate carbon emissions and enhance carbon sequestration are vital for addressing the challenges associated with these changes.
