A recent study published in journal ‘The Science’ reveals that, Global mean temperatures in 2023 reached nearly 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, 0.2°C of this rise may be attributed to declining low-altitude cloud cover.

Key Findings of the Study

• Low-altitude cloud cover, which plays a crucial role in cooling the planet by reflecting sunlight back into space, globally fell by 1.5% in 2023, continuing a decade-long decline of 1.27%.
  • This reduction has caused a measurable drop in planetary albedo — the proportion of solar radiation reflected into space after interacting with Earth’s atmosphere and surface.
• Decline in cloud cover was most pronounced in the northern mid-latitudes and tropical oceans, particularly in the Atlantic region.
• Further, ~15% of the albedo decline is linked to the loss of Arctic snow and sea ice, which are vital for reflecting sunlight.
• Reasons for decline in cloud cover: Could be likely explained by lower concentrations of anthropogenic aerosols in the atmosphere, especially due to stricter regulations on marine fuel.
  • Aerosols are small particles suspended in the atmosphere and are known to influence climate, weather, health, and ecology.