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Most warming this century may be due to air pollution cuts

151d ago
Science
New Scientist
Most warming this century may be due to air pollution cuts
Recent satellite data indicates that a significant portion of the warming observed since 2001 may be attributable to a phenomenon known as cloud brightening, caused by decreased sulphate pollution. Sulphate aerosols, previously emitted from industrial activities, reflected sunlight and had a cooling effect. As regulations and technological advancements have reduced these emissions, clouds have become less reflective, allowing more solar radiation to reach the Earth's surface. While this explains a substantial part of recent warming trends, it's important to note that this effect is considered temporary. The ongoing reduction of sulphate pollution, while beneficial for air quality and public health, has inadvertently revealed the true extent of greenhouse gas-driven warming.
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