The trail of clues that our planet might be heating faster than we realised
Summary
Scientists say sulfur pollution from burning fossil fuels helps cool the Earth by reflecting sunlight. As pollution controls reduce sulfur emissions, this cooling effect is shrinking, making global warming faster. Researchers warn the overall warming may be happening more quickly than earlier expected.Key Facts
- Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide, which warms the planet, and sulfur pollution, which cools it by reflecting sunlight.
- Clean-air laws have sharply reduced sulfur pollution since the 1990s, but carbon dioxide emissions remain very high.
- The drop in sulfur pollution means less sunlight is reflected away, so global temperatures rise faster.
- The past three years have been the warmest on record, with 2027 likely to become the hottest year.
- Natural climate fluctuations like El Niño affect yearly temperatures but do not change the long-term warming trend.
- Studies removing natural effects show the rate of global warming is increasing.
- Sulfur pollution also affects cloud brightness and lifespan, increasing the reflection of sunlight and cooling the Earth.
- Scientists are concerned the planet may be more sensitive to greenhouse gases than previously thought, leading to faster climate change.
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