Earth absorbing more solar radiation, prompting climate concerns: NASA
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NASA's Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) Energy Balanced and Filled (EBAF) Edition 4.2 data indicates a significant increase in Earth's absorption of solar radiation in 2023, particularly in February, March, and December.
The analysis unveils fluctuations in solar radiation absorption, raising concerns about climate change patterns.
In February, Earth's solar radiation absorption peaked at 3.9 watts per square metre (W/m²), rising to 6.2 W/m² in March, presenting a noteworthy contrast to historical data from 2000. December 2023 maintained a pattern of high solar radiation absorption, emphasising ongoing changes in Earth's energy balance influenced by various factors, including greenhouse gas concentrations, atmospheric particulates, solar variability, and albedo changes.
Annual mean absorption levels for 2023 surpassed those observed at the beginning of the 21st century, suggesting a rising trend in solar radiation absorption. This energy imbalance could impact temperature, sea level, and climate, highlighting the potential global environmental consequences.
Analysing data spanning from 2000 to 2023, CERES reveals significant monthly and yearly variability. Remarkably, 2011, 2017, 2022, and 2023 experienced high spikes in absorbed solar radiation, indicative of an ascending trend. Some years, like 2001 and 2014, show negative anomalies, indicating decreased solar absorption, influenced by factors such as cloud cover, aerosols, or Earth's albedo changes.
The recent intensified positive trend, notably in 2023, emphasises the Earth's increasing absorption of solar energy.
This data is crucial for climatologists and policymakers, providing insights into current climate conditions and potential future impacts on global weather patterns and long-term climate projections.
The complex and dynamic nature of the climate system underscores the need for ongoing monitoring, research, and a nuanced understanding to inform decisions and implement effective solutions in response to climate change.