Perceptions of CO2 Report - Global CCS Institute

AQuestion statementsProperties:• Colourless• Odourless• Heavier than air, therefore accumulates in low lying areas• Non-flammable• Non-explosive at normal pressure• Water-solubleCauses 'greenhouse effect' in atmosphere. Greenhouse gases in ouratmosphere make sure the sun's warmth on earth does not immediatelyescape out to space. This 'greenhouse effect' provides a habitableclimate for plants, animals and humans.The toxicity of CO 2 depends on its concentration in the atmosphere.Please read the following table which lists indicative physical effects ofincreasing CO 2 concentrations.Variable NamesInfoPropertyInfoGHeffectConcentration of CO 2(%)Time ofexposureto onset(minutes)SymptomsExample ofconcentration0.04% Prolonged None Atmosphericconcentration0.1% Prolonged None Concentration insome hot springs1% Prolonged Drowsiness Concentration ina closed roomfull of people2–6% 5-30 Heavier or fasterbreathingHeadache,dizziness, chillsand decrease insensation6–10% 5-60 Dim vision,tremors and lossof consciousness(risk of death)Breath fromhumans (100timesatmosphericconcentration)Places where CO 2 exists• Atmosphere• Breath from humans• Forests• Oceans• Underground in oil and gas fields and magma chambers fromvolcanoesUses of CO 2• CO 2 is used to make drinks fizzy e.g. cola and soda• Extra CO 2 is put in the air in greenhouses to help plants grow• CO 2 is used in some fire extinguishersInfoToxicityInfoPlaceInfoUseUnderstanding how individuals perceive carbon dioxide | 59