Which human activity is a primary driver of climate change?

Burning fossil fuels is a primary driver of climate change because this process releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, causing the Earth's average temperature to rise, which is a central aspect of climate change. Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas are extensively used for energy generation, transportation, and industrial processes, making them major contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions.

In contrast, reforestation, water conservation, and organic farming are practices aimed at improving environmental health and mitigating climate change. Reforestation can help absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, water conservation aids in managing resources sustainably, and organic farming promotes biodiversity and reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers. However, these activities do not drive climate change; instead, they generally work against it by promoting sustainability and reducing emissions.