What does the term "greenhouse gases" refer to in emissions discussions?

The term "greenhouse gases" refers specifically to gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, which significantly contributes to climate change. These gases include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases.

When solar radiation reaches the Earth, some of it is reflected back into space, while the rest is absorbed and re-radiated as heat. Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere absorb and re-emit this heat, thus enhancing the greenhouse effect and leading to an increase in temperatures globally. This process is vital for maintaining a livable climate; however, the excessive concentration of these gases due to human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes, has intensified climate change and its associated impacts on weather patterns, sea levels, and ecosystems.

In contrast, the other options refer to different environmental issues. Pollutants harming aquatic life focus on substances affecting water bodies and marine ecosystems. Ozone layer-depleting substances relate to chemicals that damage the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful UV radiation. Particles affecting human health highlight air quality concerns, particularly particulate matter that can lead to respiratory issues. Each of these is important in environmental discussions, but they do not encapsulate the specific definition of greenhouse gases