The Methane Cycle.

            Atmospheric methane (CH₄) is a potent greenhouse gas, which functions in the regulation and variability of hydroxyl groups (-OH^-) and water vapor in the Earth’s atmosphere and plays a predominant role in global warming.  Through time, the release of methane into the atmosphere has increased significantly due to microbes and human activities involving industry, agriculture, and waste management activities.  The increase in methane combined with its higher effectiveness in trapping heat radiated from Earth have had dramatic effects in regards to global warming, contributing to an estimated 1.3° C higher globally-averaged surface temperature.

The diagram below includes a detailed illustration of the methane cycle.

It is important to note the wide variety of sources that are responsible for the release of methane into the atmosphere.