Burning fossil fuels such as coal, gas, oil, petrol - even to generate electricity - releases carbon dioxide gases into the atmosphere. This is the main "greenhouse" gas that helps to cause global warming. If the earth warms, the world's climate will change and sea levels will rise. Weather conditions will become more extreme. For some life species survival could become more difficult.
The Government has already taken steps to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Here in Gateshead we can also play our part. Accessing this part of Gateshead Council's website could prove a very important first step.