What is one way that methane levels are increased due to human activities?

Increased farming of cattle significantly raises methane levels in the atmosphere. Cattle produce methane during their digestion process, specifically through a process called enteric fermentation. This methane is released primarily through burping. As beef and dairy farming expands to meet global food demands, the number of cattle increases, leading to a higher overall production of methane.

In contrast, options like industrial waste disposal are more associated with other greenhouse gases. Afforestation primarily helps to absorb carbon dioxide, contributing positively to lowering greenhouse gas levels, while solar panel installation is aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels and does not contribute to methane emissions. Thus, the practice of cattle farming directly correlates with the rise in methane levels due to the biological processes involved in cattle digestion.