IS CARBON-DIOXIDE A GOOD GREENHOUSE GAS - EFFECTS OF INCREASING CARBON-DIOXIDE ON ECOLOGICAL-SYSTEMS

Carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, a greenhouse gas, may also provide benefits for mankind: many plants grow better under increasing CO2 concentrations. Individuals have speculated that agricultural yields will increase up to 30% under future CO2 concentrations, and natural ecosystems will become more lush and resilient. However, infertile conditions and complex ecological interactions often limit improved plant growth under increasing CO2 atmospheres. Future policies to adapt to a CO2-rich world must not overstate benefits from these conditions, nor ignore their usefulness for increasing future agricultural yields or restoring degraded habitats.