Applied Physics | Causes and implications of a hyperventilating planet Earth

Abstract:

We have observed the seasonal cycle of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) at Mauna Loa nearly continuously since 1958, confirming that human greenhouse gas emissions are accumulating in the atmosphere and driving global warming. A more subtle signal revealed by this record is that the seasonal cycle of atmospheric CO2 has been increasing in amplitude over the past seven decades. Such a pattern may indicate that ecosystems, especially in boreal and Arctic ecosystems, are taking up and releasing carbon faster now than in previous years. Here, I will use space-based remote sensing observations together with atmospheric CO2 data to probe the causes of this increased seasonality and discuss its implications for climate projections.