KPLU Local News
(2010-08-04)
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Photo courtesy Jimmy Mack on Google's Picasa Web Albums
Normally, scientists measure carbon dioxide levels far from cities. Now, researchers are now measuring and analyzing CO2 levels in downtown Seattle.
Partly, it's to raise public awareness. For example, Dr. Chris Sabine with the Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory says CO2 levels peak during the morning rush hour.
"The measurements we're making and the data actually show that when you drive your car you really do release CO2 and we can measure that and see that in the atmosphere."
The emissions that come out of your car's tailpipe contain a lot of different gases. Carbon dioxide isn't poisonous. But it is thought to be most responsible for global warming.
The research also contributes to scientific understanding of climate change by showing how local emissions, wind and weather patterns can affect C-O-2 levels.
The Space Needle readings are streamed in real time to a website, as well as a display at the Pacific Science Center.
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