The burning of fossil fuels primarily contributes to the environmental problem of climate change by releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to global warming, which causes rising sea levels, extreme weather events, habitat disruption, and threats to biodiversity. Additionally, burning fossil fuels produces air pollutants like sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, contributing to air pollution and acid rain, which harm ecosystems, human health, and infrastructure. Fossil fuel combustion also impacts water quality through pollution from extraction, refining, and accidents like oil spills. Overall, the burning of fossil fuels has widespread detrimental effects on the environment and public health.