Step 1: Greenhouse effect is the warming of the earth due to trapping of heat by certain gases in the atmosphere.
Step 2: Greenhouse gases absorb infrared radiation emitted by the earth.
Step 3: Carbon dioxide is one of the major greenhouse gases.
Step 4: Increased concentration of \(CO_2\) enhances the greenhouse effect and contributes to global warming.
Step 5: Therefore, greenhouse effect is mainly caused by:
\[
\boxed{CO_2}
\]