Earth’s Global Mean Surface Temperature (GMST) has increased by about 1.0 degree C over the period 1880-2015. One of the main causes is thought to be the increase in atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHGs). If GHG emissions are not substantially decreased, several studies indicate there will be a dangerous anthropogenic interference (DAI) with climate by the end of this century. However, there is no good quantitative measure to determine when it is “€œtoo late” to start reducing GHGs in 5 order to avoid DAI. In this study, the authors develop a method for determining a so-called Point of No Return (PNR) for several GHG emission scenarios. The method is based on a combination of stochastic viability theory and uses linear response theory to estimate the probability density function of the GMST. The innovative element in this approach is the applicability to high-dimensional climate models as is demonstrated by results obtained with the PLASIM climate model.

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