Greenhouse Gas: Legal Definitions and Environmental Implications
Definition & Meaning
The term "greenhouse gas" refers to specific gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat. According to U.S. law, greenhouse gases include:
- Carbon dioxide
- Methane
- Nitrous oxide
- Hydrofluorocarbons
- Perfluorocarbons
- Sulfur hexafluoride
These gases contribute to the greenhouse effect, which leads to global warming and climate change.