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[TECHNOLOGY] · 4 sources

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Climate feedback loops could amplify global warming by 30 percent

A study published in Environmental Research Letters warns that neglected climate feedback loops could amplify global warming by as much as 30 percent by the year 2100. Researchers suggest that current climate models may not fully account for natural processes triggered by rising temperatures, which in turn release additional greenhouse gases.

Key drivers of this amplification include the thawing of permafrost, which releases stored carbon dioxide and methane; more frequent and intense forest fires that expel carbon from trees and vegetation; and the warming of wetlands and freshwater bodies, which accelerates the microbial decomposition of organic matter.

These natural emissions create a self-reinforcing cycle where human-induced warming triggers environmental responses that further drive temperature increases. Scientists note that these feedback mechanisms could add an additional 0.2 to 0.4 degrees Celsius of warming, potentially reducing the time available to meet critical climate thresholds.

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Brian Buma · Environmental Defense Fund · Environmental Research Letters

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