Major new efforts are underway to combat climate change—by changing what we drive. California recently banned the sale of gas-powered cars starting in 2035. (Californians will still be able to own such cars, but new vehicles sold there must be zero emission, such as electric cars.) And earlier this year, General Motors (GM), the country’s largest automaker, said that it aims to sell only zero-emission vehicles by 2035.

Driving gas-powered cars releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the air. Such emissions trap heat in the atmosphere. For more than a century, humans have produced them at record levels, causing the average global temperature to rise. 

Scientists warn that CO2 emissions must be drastically cut to avoid an increase in extreme weather and climate events, such as hurricanes and wildfires. 

Experts say California’s plan will reduce greenhouse gas emissions for the entire nation. As the most populous state, California is a top source of emissions in the U.S. Its action has led other states to set or consider setting similar goals. Meanwhile, GM’s plan may prod other U.S. automakers to alter their offerings, which could help transform the entire auto industry. 

These plans have critics, however. People who work in the oil and gas industry say costs will rise for consumers, as electric cars are typically more expensive. Still, such costs are expected to come down eventually, as demand for zero-emission cars grows and more are produced.