In a series of four ground-breaking conferences held around the world over the past two months, top scientists and policy makers called for urgent reductions in ‘conventional’ air pollutants, including ground-level ozone, black carbon and methane, to provide immediate climate benefits. These conferences were sponsored by the Global Atmospheric Pollution Forum or organizations affiliated with the Forum.
Explaining the conclusions, John Kuylenstierna, Joint Convener of the Global Atmospheric Pollution Forum, commented:
"Compared with carbon dioxide (which lasts from 50 to –100s of years in the atmosphere), these substances are relatively short-lived, lasting from days to weeks (black carbon and ozone) to a decade (methane) – so decreasing their concentrations can produce relatively quick climate benefits. This can be of particular importance for the potentially avoiding key ‘tipping points’, especially in the Arctic region and glacial areas, as well as providing important health and other air quality benefits."
Read the full press release.
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