What does Global Warming Potential (GWP) measure?

Global Warming Potential (GWP) is a measure used to compare the ability of different greenhouse gases to trap heat in the atmosphere over a specified time period, usually 100 years. It is expressed relative to carbon dioxide, which has a GWP of 1. This allows for the assessment and comparison of the climate impact of various greenhouse gases, including methane and nitrous oxide, in relation to carbon dioxide. The higher the GWP of a gas, the more heat it can trap compared to carbon dioxide over that time frame. This concept is crucial for understanding the overall impact of different emissions on climate change and for developing effective strategies to mitigate their effects.

The other options do not accurately reflect the definition of GWP. The rate of oxygen release by forests relates more to photosynthesis and carbon sequestration, not GWP. The impact of renewable energy sources on climate change involves broader environmental assessments rather than GWP's specific focus on greenhouse gases. The level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is a critical factor in climate discussions, but it does not encompass the comparative aspect that GWP provides for different gases.