How Do Fossil Fuels Impact the Environment?
Burned fossil fuels release damaging gas. Fossil fuel combustion creates acids, such as sulfuric and carbonic, that rise into the atmosphere and return as acid rain. Acid rain damages plant life, soil and water. Much of the damaging gas is carbon monoxide, which inhibits the proper release of infrared radiation from the Earth, thereby causing rapid heating and increasing climate change. In addition, the fuels released can erode the ozone layer that protects the planet from deadly radiation emitted by the sun. Fossil fuels can create solid waste, damaging the soil. Fossil fuels’ remains are stored and can create toxic runoff in which acids and toxins seep down into the soil. The contamination can spread from there into water sources. Fossil fuels can leak in transport, damaging the water. Fossil fuel-based oil is often transported via tankers and ships. Damaged tankers have leaked oil into the water, often killing the sea life and corrupting the water.
