New research reconstructs 485 million years of Earth's climate, showing unprecedented human-caused warming and the potential consequences of swift temperature increases.
Sarah Kaplan and Simon Ducroquet report for The Washington Post.
In short:
- Scientists found Earth's climate has experienced dramatic shifts, with temperatures far higher in the past than previously thought.
- The study, based on fossil data and climate models, shows a strong link between carbon dioxide levels and temperature increases.
- Experts warn that the current rate of human-caused warming is faster than any climate change observed in Earth's history.
Key quote:
“We know it to be the worst extinction in the Phanerozoic. By analogy, we should be worried about human warming because it’s so fast. We’re changing Earth’s temperature at a rate that exceeds anything we know about.”
— Emily Judd, researcher at University of Arizona and the Smithsonian specializing in ancient climates
Why this matters:
Though Earth has survived past extreme climates, humans evolved in cooler conditions. Rapid modern warming threatens ecosystems and communities unprepared for the changes ahead.
Learn more: Global warming predictions exceed critical thresholds
