Climate change is speeding up — the pace nearly doubled in ten years
NSRI Research Papers1, 1-8 (2026)|
Abstract
Earth is now warming at a rate of around 0.35 °C per decade, fresh analysis finds.
The rate of global warming has accelerated significantly over the past decade, according to a comprehensive new analysis of global temperature data. The findings suggest that the Earth is now warming at a rate of approximately 0.35 °C per decade, nearly double the rate observed in the late 20th century.
Behind the Acceleration
Researchers attribute this acceleration to a combination of factors, including the continued rise in greenhouse gas emissions and a reduction in cooling aerosols. The phasing out of certain industrial pollutants, while beneficial for air quality, has inadvertently removed a "sunshade" effect that was masking some of the warming.
Ocean Heat Content
The study also highlights a dramatic increase in ocean heat content. The oceans absorb over 90% of the excess heat trapped by greenhouse gases, and recent measurements show that they are warming faster than previously thought.