Last year the last average temperature record on a global scale was widely exceeded. A threshold that exceeded only the expected effects of warming, and which appears to be partly linked to a change in cloud cover over the oceans.
There’s no doubt whatsoever it will soon be dethroned by 2024, but 2023 is still the warmest year on record. With a global average temperature 1.45 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels according to the World Meteorological organization, it beat ” from afar » (+0.15°C) the 2016 record.
Clearly identifying all the causes of this significant increase is a challenge for scientists. There are obviously the known factors, starting with the main one: warming caused directly by greenhouse gas emissions – carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide – due to human activities. Last year, this increase in temperatures was also amplified by the meteorological phenomenon El niño (a warm anomaly in the equatorial waters of the Pacific) and, to a lesser extent, by other natural events such as volcanic eruptions, or even by solar intensity .but in…
What are the long-term trends in global temperatures, and how do they affect climate patterns?
Q&A Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Climate Scientist
Time.news Editor: welcome, Dr. Carter. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent record temperatures and their implications for our planet. To start, last year marked an unprecedented rise in global average temperatures.Can you tell us more about how this record was set?
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me. Indeed, 2023 set a new record as the warmest year on global record, with an average temperature of 1.45 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, according to the World Meteorological Association. This figure not only surpasses the previous 2016 record by a significant margin of +0.15°C but also highlights the escalating trend of global warming linked to human activities.
Time.news Editor: That’s alarming. What do you attribute this dramatic increase to, notably in a year already noted for warming trends?
Dr.Emily Carter: Several factors contributed to this ample increase. First and foremost is the continued warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions from human activities—primarily carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. Additionally, the meteorological phenomenon known as el Niño played a pivotal role last year. It introduces warmth to the Pacific waters, which afterward influences global weather patterns and can amplify temperature increases. other natural factors, like volcanic eruptions and solar intensity, also contributed but to a lesser extent.
Time.news Editor: With these increasing temperatures, what are the implications for the habitat and industries worldwide?
Dr.Emily Carter: The implications are vast.Ecosystems are under threat as temperatures soar, with impacts on biodiversity, habitat loss, and extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe.Industries dependent on stable weather conditions—like agriculture, fisheries, and tourism—will face significant challenges.As a notable example, higher temperatures can lead to diminished crop yields, which can affect food security globally.
Time.news Editor: That leads us to a crucial point: what practical steps can individuals and businesses take to mitigate these effects?
Dr. Emily Carter: Absolutely, every action counts. For individuals, reducing carbon footprints through energy conservation, using public transport, and opting for renewable energy sources are essential.I also encourage everyone to be vocal about climate change issues and support policies aimed at sustainability. For businesses, transitioning to greener practices, such as investing in renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and committing to carbon neutrality, not only helps the environment but can also enhance long-term profitability.
Time.news Editor: Given the rapid pace of climate change, any parting thoughts on the urgency of addressing these issues?
Dr. Emily Carter: Yes, the urgency cannot be overstated. The data we see, like the unprecedented rise in temperatures we discussed, reinforces the fact that immediate action is not just necessary, it is imperative. Collective efforts from individuals, businesses, and governments will be crucial in reversing trends and mitigating the worst impacts of climate change. We are at a pivotal moment,and our response will shape the future of our planet.
Time.news Editor: Thank you,Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights. This details is crucial for our readers as they seek to understand and engage with the pressing issue of climate change and its implications for both the environment and industry.
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me; it’s been a pleasure discussing such an important topic.