Drought affects levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere more than was previously thought, because stressed eco-systems absorb less of it, say Swiss, French and British researchers.
The researchers from ETH Zurich, the Laboratory of Climate and Environmental Sciences in France and the University of Exeter, UK, publish their findings in the August 30 edition of British science review NatureExternal link.
Terrestrial ecosystems absorb 30% of human CO2 emissions on average, but during dry spells plants reduce their photosynthesis and thus their absorption of CO2 from the surrounding air, they say.
For example, in 2015, which was particularly dry, ecosystems absorbed 30% less CO2 from the atmosphere than in a normal year. In 2011, which was wet, the opposite happened, with a slowdown in rising concentrations of CO2.
The scientists were able to use new satellite observations of water to measure the overall impact of droughts on photosynthesis and ecosystem respiration.
When there is a major drought in a given region, there is less water mass, and gravity is consequently slightly weaker over that region. Such variations are so small that they are imperceptible to humans. But by measuring them with satellites, scientists are able to estimate large-scale changes in water storage to an accuracy of about four centimetres everywhere on the planet.
More
More
Citizens launch initiative to combat global warming
This content was published on
Nobel Prize-winning scientist Jacques Dubochet is among those launching an initiative calling for CO2 emissions to be reduced to zero by 2050.
New gel developed in Zurich renders alcohol harmless
This content was published on
A newly developed gel composed of whey proteins breaks down alcohol in the body and could reduce its harmful and intoxicating effects in humans.
Pro-Palestine protests extend to Basel and Fribourg universities
This content was published on
Demonstrators called for an academic boycott of all Israeli institutions and disassociation with Chaim Weizmann, the first Israeli president.
This content was published on
In many cases, China's use of AI undermines the national security of the US and its allies, according to a US government representative.
Swiss Hells Angels trial alleges rape and money laundering
This content was published on
An allegedly high-ranking member of the Hells Angels is accused of money laundering totalling millions and rape, among other serious crimes.
SWISS is airline ‘group flagship’ says Lufthansa boss
This content was published on
Despite challenges, Lufthansa and its most important subsidiary, Swiss International Airlines, promise increased satisfaction and continued growth.
Swiss rediscover communist zeal after 84-year hiatus
This content was published on
Over 300 participants founded the Revolutionary Communist Party (RKP) at its congress in Burgdorf in canton Bern at the weekend.
This content was published on
Nemo brought the Eurovision Song Contest to Switzerland with a victory on Saturday evening in Malmö, Sweden. It is Switzerland's third victory in the history of the music contest.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Climate study warns of greenhouse gas feedback loop
This content was published on
Many current climate models could be underestimating the long-term consequences of global warming, says an international study.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.