Environmental Impact - Fossil Fuels (i) Name two examples of fossil fuels - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2016

The burning of fossil fuels has several significant environmental impacts:

1. Air Pollution: When fossil fuels are burned, they release pollutants like sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter into the atmosphere. These pollutants can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues in humans.

2. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Combustion of fossil fuels emits carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄), which are greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change.

3. Acid Rain: Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides combine with water vapor in the atmosphere to form acid rain, which can harm ecosystems, damage buildings, and affect soil quality.

4. Ocean Acidification: Increased CO₂ levels from burning fossil fuels are absorbed by oceans, leading to acidification, which can harm marine life, particularly coral reefs.

5. Habitat Destruction: Fossil fuel extraction processes, including mining and drilling, can lead to habitat destruction, threatening biodiversity and disrupting ecosystems.

6. Water Pollution: Leakage from fossil fuel extraction and transportation can contaminate groundwater and surface water, posing risks to drinking water and aquatic life.

7. Climate Disruption: The increase in global temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions can result in extreme weather events, altering ecosystems and affecting agricultural output.

8. Resource Depletion: Continuous extraction and use of fossil fuels deplete non-renewable resources, leading to long-term environmental sustainability concerns.