 Goal 13 of the Sustainable Development Goals, Climate Action, What Are Greenhouse Gases? Meet Liz and Sylvia. They want to go see a movie at the local theatre down the street. Liz offers to drive, but Sylvia suggests that they ride their bikes instead. Liz argues that it will be quicker to drive, but Sylvia tells her she's trying to cut back on the amount of greenhouse gases she releases into the air. Liz asks Sylvia what greenhouse gases are. Sylvia tells her that greenhouse gases are compounds that repeat in the Earth's atmosphere, keeping the planet's surface warmer than it would be without them. This increase in temperature can lead to stronger hurricanes, melting ice caps, and droughts. The three most common greenhouse gases found in the Earth's atmosphere are water vapor, carbon dioxide, and methane. Liz is shocked to learn about greenhouse gases. She wants to do her best to help fight against the changes they are causing to the planet. Sylvia tells her that by riding their bikes instead of driving, they're already making positive changes to the Earth. Little things like cutting back on motorized transportation and changing your diet can help cut back against the harmful chemicals that are being pumped into the atmosphere. By going the extra mile, we can make sure the planet is a safe and hospitable place for us to live for years to come.