There’s more to climate change than carbon dioxide Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratories

Event details

Marking Global Climate Strike Day

The conversation around our warming planet typically revolves around changes in the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2). However, the concentration of other compounds in the air are also increasing over time, and they can also increase the temperature of the planet. These other greenhouse gases, such as methane, ozone and halocarbons, are much shorter-lived in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide, and reducing their concentrations may provide part of the solution to the climate emergency. The Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratories maintains one of the few long-term monitoring sites for these chemicals from an observatory located on the Cape Verde islands in the Atlantic Ocean. These observations show the changes in the chemical composition of the atmosphere over the last decade and highlight the interconnected nature of the natural and human system in trying to find solutions to the climate emergency.

You are also encouraged to drop into the Spring Lane Building between noon and 2pm for an exhibition showcasing some of our work in sustainability. Tea and coffee will also be available - please bring your own cup.