However, some greenhouse gases are increasing as a direct result of man-made emissions. Because CO 2 is chemically stable, once it is released into the atmosphere, it lasts for many decades. People put six billion tons of carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping greenhouse gases into the environment each year. Driving cars, trucks and minivans, as well as other forms of transportation, accounts for 32 percent of all the carbon dioxide Americans pump into the atmosphere. The burning of fossil fuels has resulted in the build-up of more carbon dioxide gas in the atmosphere than can be absorbed or dissipated by the earth and its atmosphere.
Carbon dioxide allows the sun's short wave radiation to reach the earth.
However, it traps much of the long-wave, infrared heat energy, similar to a greenhouse. Union of Concerned Scientists - Information on various aspects of climate change. Includes information on climate, emissions, the severity of impact, and what can be done to help. The Global Warming Debate includes facts debating the presence of global warming.