What is the significance of reducing fossil fuel use for the environment?

Reducing fossil fuel use is significant for the environment primarily because it leads to a decrease in emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants. Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas release carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and other harmful substances when burned for energy. These emissions contribute to climate change by enhancing the greenhouse effect, leading to global warming and its associated impacts like rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and disruptions to ecosystems.

Additionally, burning fossil fuels releases pollutants like sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), which can cause smog and respiratory problems in humans. By moving away from fossil fuels and adopting renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, we can significantly reduce these harmful emissions, thereby improving air quality and contributing to a healthier environment.

The other options present scenarios that do not align with the primary environmental benefits of reducing fossil fuel use. For example, increasing energy costs and promoting land degradation are not direct outcomes of reducing fossil fuel use, while increasing reliance on coal would counteract the environmental benefits sought through reduced fossil fuel consumption.