Unlocking the Past: Scientists Discover Earlier Signs of Human-Caused Global Warming Than Ever Before | CNN

The impact of humans on global warming has been clearer for much longer than many believed. A new study indicates that detectable changes in the Earth’s climate may have begun as early as 1885, before the widespread use of cars. This marks an important revelation about our environmental footprint.

Researchers combined advanced climate models and historical data to arrive at this conclusion. Traditionally, scientists thought clear signs of human influence on climate only surfaced in the mid-20th century. However, changes in the atmosphere were noted much earlier, thanks to developments from the Industrial Revolution.

The findings were highlighted in a paper published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. It emphasizes the vital role of monitoring atmospheric conditions, particularly the stratosphere, where greenhouse gas effects differ from those in the lower atmosphere. Greenhouse gases tend to warm the troposphere but cool the stratosphere.

Lead researcher Ben Santer and co-author Susan Solomon expressed surprise at their findings. They didn’t expect to detect such a human influence so soon after monitoring began. Santer noted, “We could have identified a human-caused stratospheric cooling signal within 25 years of starting the monitoring, if we had the tools we have today.”

Notably, the study found that a mere increase of 10 parts per million in carbon dioxide was detectable in the atmosphere between 1860 and 1899. In contrast, carbon dioxide levels rose by about 50 parts per million just between 2000 and 2025.

Gabi Hegerl, a climate scientist unconnected to the study, pointed out that these findings underscore how quickly greenhouse gases can influence the upper atmosphere. Andrea Steiner from the University of Graz further highlighted that this research shows that changes in the atmosphere can serve as early indicators of climate change, potentially revealing the effects of climate action sooner than surface-level readings.

The implications of this study extend beyond science; they stress the need for ongoing monitoring of our atmosphere. Unfortunately, as Santer pointed out, funding cuts to vital research programs could hinder this progress. The NOAA budget proposals threaten essential carbon monitoring capabilities, while proposed cuts to NASA and other agencies may compromise climate-related satellite missions.

Understanding these early signs of human impact is crucial for combating climate change. It serves as a reminder that proactive measures and continued research are vital for our safety and the health of our planet.

For more detailed insights, refer to the study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences here.

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