For the first time scientists have provided clear evidence that tropical tree lifespan decreases above a critical temperature threshold. Findings published in the journal PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences) show that across the tropics, tree lifespans decrease for temperatures above 25°C. Because temperatures are rising rapidly across large parts of the tropics, tree mortality…
Researchers from the University of Leeds have contributed to the first-ever detailed roadmap for a fully decarbonised nation. The Sixth Carbon Budget (2033-2037), published today by the Climate Change Committee (CCC), draws on Leeds’ expertise to chart the decisive move to zero carbon for the UK. Research conducted by Professor Peter Taylor, Chair in Sustainable…
A new study shows that strong and rapid action to cut emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases will help to slow down the rate of global warming over the next twenty years. This highlights that immediate action on climate change can bring benefits within lifetimes, and not just far into the future. Scientists…
A global coalition of leading climate research universities has urged world leaders to act now to avoid catastrophic environmental consequences. The International Universities Climate Alliance, which includes Leeds, represents a quarter of the world’s top 100 environmental research universities. The group has now issued its first declaration ahead of the G20 Summit this weekend, during which…
According to a new study, including paleoclimate data in the development of climate models could help scientists predict scenarios for future climate and propose strategies for mitigation. An international team of climate scientists, including Dr Benjamin Mills from the University of Leeds, suggest that numerical models predicting future climate change should include simulations of past…
