What is the Keeling Curve?

What is the Keeling Curve?

The Keeling Curve is a plot that tracks the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere since 1958. It shows a steady upward trend, with seasonal fluctuations due to natural processes like plant growth, but an overall increase due to fossil fuel emissions. This upward slope illustrates how human activities are driving a rise in atmospheric CO2 levels.

Why is the Keeling Curve important?

The Keeling Curve is significant because it provides clear, long-term evidence of the rapid increase in CO2 levels since the Industrial Revolution. It highlights the role of fossil fuel combustion and deforestation in contributing to global climate change. The rising CO2 concentrations shown in the curve are directly linked to global warming and ocean acidification.

How does the Keeling Curve show seasonal variations?

The graph also reveals annual fluctuations, where CO2 levels drop slightly in the spring and summer as plants absorb more CO2 during photosynthesis, and then rise again in fall and winter when plants release CO2 as they decay. This seasonal pattern is superimposed on the overall increasing trend.

What causes the upward trend in the Keeling Curve?

The increase in CO2 is primarily driven by human activities, including the burning of fossil fuels for energy and transportation, deforestation, and certain industrial processes. These activities release large amounts of CO2, which accumulate in the atmosphere, as seen in the steadily climbing Keeling Curve. You can explore the sources of CO2 emissions that contribute to this rise.

How has the Keeling Curve influenced climate science?

Since its inception, the Keeling Curve has been a foundational piece of data in climate science. It has helped raise awareness of the link between human activity and climate change, leading to international efforts to reduce carbon emissions. It remains a key indicator in tracking progress on climate goals such as those outlined in the Paris Agreement.