In the Earth's atmosphere, there are five important greenhouse gases that occur naturally: carbon dioxide, methane, ozone, halocarbons, and nitrous oxide. In correct proportion, these greenhouse gases provide important protection for the Earth's surface. However, if the greenhouse gases become too concentrated in the Earth's atmosphere, then they create a greenhouse effect that overheats the Earth. Although a few scientists continue to dissent, there is near unanimity among climatologists that current global warming is caused by the dramatic increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide since the advent of the Industrial Revolution and the extraordinary increase in the combustion of fossil fuels. In her essay, "The Greening of Science, Theology, and Ethics," Audrey Chapman has argued that ecological ethicists must understand the science behind concepts such as the greenhouse effect in order to contribute meaningful ethical analysis.

See also ECOLOGY; ECOLOGY, ETHICS OF; ECOLOGY, RELIGIOUS AND PHILOSOPHICAL ASPECTS; ECOLOGY, SCIENCE OF

RICHARD O. RANDOLPH