CO2 concentration in atmosphere over last 800 thousand years

The concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere has varied significantly over the past 800,000 years. This information is primarily derived from the study of ice cores drilled from Antarctica and Greenland, which provide a record of past atmospheric conditions.

Below is the graph of CO2 concentration in atmosphere over 800 thousand years created by Reddit user: drivenbydata. Time on this graph is warped using sqrt scale before 1900 for readability.

CO2 concentration in atmosphere over last 800 thousand years

Prior to the Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century, the Earth's climate experienced a series of glacial-interglacial cycles. During ice ages, CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere were generally lower, typically ranging between approximately 180 to 280 parts per million (ppm). These fluctuations were primarily driven by natural factors such as volcanic activity, variations in Earth's orbit, and changes in solar radiation.

During interglacial periods, like the one we are currently in (the Holocene), CO2 levels rose to higher values within the range of 180 to 300 ppm. These variations were associated with changes in temperature, ice sheet dynamics, and ocean circulation patterns.

However, the most significant departure from these historical norms occurred with the onset of the Industrial Revolution. The widespread burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation, and industrial processes released substantial quantities of CO2 into the atmosphere. This anthropogenic activity has led to a rapid increase in atmospheric CO2 concentrations.

In September 2021, the atmospheric CO2 concentration had surpassed 415 ppm, which is significantly higher than any point in the past 800,000 years. This rise in CO2 levels has been accompanied by an acceleration in the rate of increase in recent decades, primarily due to continued fossil fuel combustion.

And if you’re looking to buy Air Quality CO2 Meter you can still find it on Amazon here.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Find cities with similar climate

This map has been created using The Global environmental stratification. The Global environmental stratification (GEnS), based on statistical clustering of bioclimate data (WorldClim). GEnS, consists of 125 strata, which have been aggregated into 18 global environmental zones (labeled A to R) based on the dendrogram. Interactive map >> Via www.vividmaps.com Related posts: - Find cities with similar climate 2050 - How global warming will impact 6000+ cities around the world?

Moose population in North America

The moose ( Alces alces ) is the largest member of the deer family, characterized by its massive size, long legs, and distinctive broad, palmate antlers found in males. They have a dark brown or black coat and a humped shoulder. Moose are primarily found in the boreal and mixed deciduous forests of North America, Europe, and Asia. They are solitary animals, often found near bodies of water, and are herbivores that feed on leaves, bark, twigs, and aquatic vegetation. Despite their size, moose are strong swimmers and can run up to 35 miles per hour. The moose population in North America is shrinking swiftly. This decrease has been correlated to the opening of roadways and landscapes into this animal's north range. In North America, the moose range includes almost all of Canada and Alaska, the northern part of New England and New York, the upper Rocky Mountains, northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and Isle Royale. In 2014-2015, the North Americ...

Map of Fox Species Distribution

Foxes are small to medium-sized members of the Canidae family, which also includes wolves, dogs, and other related animals. There are about 37 species of foxes distributed around the world, and they inhabit a wide range of environments, from forests and grasslands to deserts and urban areas. Below is the map of fox species distribution created by Reddit user isaacSW Here are some of the most well-known fox species and their distribution: Red Fox ( Vulpes vulpes ): The red fox is one of the most widely distributed fox species and is found in North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. They are adaptable and can live in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. Arctic Fox ( Vulpes lagopus ): The Arctic fox is found in the Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. They have adaptations that help them survive in cold climates, such as a thick coat that changes color with the seasons. Gray Fox ( Urocyon cinereoargenteus ): The gray ...

Ecoclimax

Search This Blog