What are CO2 equivalents?

We use CO₂ equivalents to collectively express the human impact on the atmosphere and make it tangible and calculable. However, CO₂ is not the only gas that is emitted in large quantities as a result of our activities and influences the climate. Methane, for example, is another gas that is released in excessive quantities as a result of human activity. 1 g of methane has about 25 times more impact on the climate than 1 g of CO₂. So 1 g of methane equals 25 g of CO₂ equivalents.