Caribbean sea sponges suggest higher global warming levels

A recent study using ancient sea sponges indicates the Earth may have warmed more than previously estimated.

Graham Readfearn reports for the Guardian.

In short:

• Researchers used Caribbean sea sponges to reconstruct past ocean temperatures, suggesting a 1.7C increase since the Industrial Revolution.
• The study, published in Nature Climate Change, challenges the current United Nations climate panel estimates.
• Critics urge caution, highlighting the need for broader data before revising global warming assessments.

Key quote:

"We will experience more serious impacts from global warming sooner than we had anticipated."

— Malcolm McCulloch, University of Western Australia

Why this matters:

This research highlights the need for swift action in environmental policy, reflecting a critical juncture in our understanding of global warming's progression.

Ocean heat waves, which can push out fish, plankton and other aquatic life, are happening far more frequently than previously thought.