From MIT Technology Review · · 1m
Climate models miss critical warming feedbacks
Climate models ignore feedback loops that could push global warming 0.2-0.4°C higher this century.
In brief
Climate models ignore feedback loops that could push global warming 0.2-0.4°C higher this century. Thawing permafrost and wildfires could raise global temperatures 0.2-0.4°C this century, making climate targets harder to meet. Originally reported by MIT Technology Review.
Climate models miss critical feedbacks
Climate change itself is increasingly fueling further warming through dangerous feedback loops.
Permafrost and wetlands threaten warming
Thawing permafrost, wildfires, hotter lakes and wetter wetlands could raise global temperatures 0.2-0.4°C this century.
Current models ignore these effects
None of the models used in major UN climate reports account for all these warming feedback effects.
Regional warming sources shorten climate targets
Three regional sources could shorten the time before 1.5°C and 2°C warming thresholds are breached by 25%.
Scientists propose solutions
Researchers are exploring fire detection, wetland treatments and permafrost protection to reduce warming feedbacks.
Fossil fuels remain key solution
The surest path to reducing warming effects remains breaking society's addiction to fossil fuels.
The short version
Thawing permafrost and wildfires could raise global temperatures 0.2-0.4°C this century, making climate targets harder to meet.
