How does climate change affect the carbon cycle?

Climate Change And Global Warming Questions



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How does climate change affect the carbon cycle?

Climate change affects the carbon cycle by altering the balance between carbon sources and sinks. Increased greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), from human activities contribute to the greenhouse effect and global warming. This leads to higher temperatures, which can accelerate the release of carbon stored in natural reservoirs like forests, permafrost, and oceans. Additionally, climate change can impact the functioning of ecosystems, affecting the ability of plants and oceans to absorb and store carbon. These changes disrupt the natural carbon cycle, resulting in a positive feedback loop where increased carbon emissions further contribute to climate change.