The past 12 months have been recorded as the hottest year in history due to rising temperatures and heat records being set. This is a concerning trend that could have devastating impacts on our planet. Measurements ending in March showed record highs in average temperatures, with Earth being more than 1.5 degrees Celsius warmer than before industrialization. While this 1.5 degree warming is considered a limit to minimize climate change risks, reducing emissions is a critical step in addressing global warming.
Recent data from the EU’s Copernicus service has shown that March was recorded as the hottest March on record, with the 12-month period ending in March also setting a record high. Despite a cold winter in Finland, heat records have been broken, with temperatures reaching over +20 degrees. Germany also experienced a tropical night with temperatures over +20 degrees.
Various factors may contribute to the sudden temperature rise, including the El Nino phenomenon, increasing greenhouse gas concentrations, and solar radiation cycles. The impacts of a volcanic eruption in Tonga and solar radiation cycles are being explored as possible reasons for the increase in temperature.
Reducing emissions is not enough; we must also utilize carbon sinks and explore artificial methods to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. If warming continues at a rapid pace, measures to artificially modify the climate, such as reflecting solar radiation in the upper atmosphere, may be considered.
Despite uncertainties in climate models, efforts to address the root causes of climate change are essential to mitigate its impacts. Interest in reducing emissions, sustainable practices, and exploring innovative solutions will be key in combating global warming. We must act now before it’s too late.