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Split Point Analysis and Uncertainty Quantification of Thermal-Optical Organic/Elemental Carbon Measurements

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Climate forcing by anthropogenic aerosols.

R J Charlson, S E Schwartz, J M Hales

Science (New York, N.Y.)

|January 24, 1992

Summary

Tropospheric aerosols, especially sulfate aerosols, significantly impact global climate by reflecting solar radiation and cooling the planet. This cooling effect has likely offset substantial global warming caused by greenhouse gases.

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Area of Science:

Atmospheric science
Climate science
Environmental science

Background:

Tropospheric aerosols were previously underestimated in their role in global climate change.
Anthropogenic sulfate aerosols significantly perturb Earth's radiative forcing.

Purpose of the Study:

To quantify the climate forcing impact of anthropogenic sulfate aerosols.
To compare aerosol forcing with greenhouse gas forcing.
To highlight the importance of aerosols in climate change assessments and policy.

Main Methods:

Estimation of radiative forcing due to anthropogenic sulfate aerosols.
Comparison of aerosol-induced forcing with greenhouse gas-induced forcing.
Analysis of geographical and seasonal distribution of forcing.

Main Results:

Anthropogenic sulfate aerosols exert a cooling influence by increasing planetary albedo.
Current climate forcing from anthropogenic sulfate is estimated at -1 to -2 W/m² globally.
Aerosol forcing is comparable in magnitude but opposite in sign to greenhouse gas forcing.

Conclusions:

Aerosol forcing has likely offset a substantial degree of global warming.
Geographical and seasonal differences in forcing prevent simple compensation.
Integrated research on aerosol climate forcing is crucial for climate policy.