Human Impact on the Earth system

Question 1

The Anthropocene

Answer 1

A recent term (last 15 years)

From ~1750 onwards society may have begun to have an impact on the
climate

2002 Paul Crutzen- published paper called Nature- there’s evidence to say since about middle of 18th century for the first time humans are actually overwhelming the natural processes of the earth system.

Evidence in ice cores for changes in greenhouse gases

Question 2

Since industrial revolution…

Answer 2

We’re now at 1.4x pre industrial CO2 levels.

Nearly 50% rise since industrial revolution

Methane rising faster but less abundance

Methane less dangerous

Question 3

“The great acceleration”

Answer 3

Trends from 1750 to 2010 in indicators for the structure and functioning of the earth system
2016 warmest year on record
Glaciers are retreating all around the world (antartic ice sheets losing mass quickly)