Temperatures have varied more than previously thought over nearly 500 billion years.

The team used a method called data assimilation, which combines geological records with climate models, originally created for weather forecasts, and adapted to study ancient climates.

The new curve shows that Global temperatures ranged between 11 and 36 degrees Celsius throughout this period.These temperature increases are directly linked to high levels of carbon dioxide. The research highlights that carbon dioxide is the main controller of global temperatures over geological time..

This research clearly shows that carbon dioxide is the main controller of global temperatures over geological time. When carbon dioxide is low, the temperature is cold; when carbon dioxide is high, the temperature is warm. Jessica Tierney, Professor, University of Arizona, USA

Compared to the past, Earth’s current temperature is cooler, but greenhouse gas emissions are warming the planet at a much faster rate, putting species and ecosystems at risk.

Researchers warn that the accelerating rate of warming due to human activities could pose a major challenge to the adaptation of humans and animals, which evolved in very different climatic conditions.

We are changing the climate to something completely out of context for humans. The planet has been warmer, and it could be, but humans and animals cannot adapt that quickly. Jessica Tierney