Brown Clouds are NOT EcoChic

In an earlier post (Princeton Climate Model...), I discussed the significance of aerosols in the atmosphere. Understanding the importance of aerosols cannot be overstated - especially as they affect climate.

The following article from National Geographic News (01/2010): "Brown Clouds Contribute to Himalaya Glacier Melt" by Anna Casselman discusses how these clouds are formed and their potential impact. A recent study showed that "the brown clouds over India could enhance atmospheric warming by as much a 50%."

While we may be accustomed to seeing beautiful orange sunsets, we should be very concerned if we begin to see any brown clouds - regardless of their shape and size - floating overhead!