The principles behind the greenhouse effect involve the absorption and re-emission of infrared radiation by gases in the Earth's atmosphere. Solar energy reaches the Earth, where it is converted to heat. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap some of this heat, preventing it from escaping back into space and thereby maintaining the planet's temperature. While this natural phenomenon is essential for life, human activities have significantly increased greenhouse gas concentrations, intensifying global warming and altering climate patterns, posing significant environmental challenges.