global dimming: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No. They are different phenomena with a linked cause. Global dimming refers to less sunlight reaching the surface, causing cooling. It is caused mainly by reflective aerosols from pollution, which often come from the same sources as warming greenhouse gases. It has partially masked the warming effect.

Trends are complex. In some regions, like Europe and North America, pollution controls have reduced aerosol emissions, leading to a reversal of dimming ('global brightening') since the 1990s. In rapidly industrialising regions like parts of Asia, dimming may still be occurring.

Because it hides the true potency of global warming. If we rapidly reduce aerosol pollution (which is good for health) without also cutting greenhouse gases, the unmasked warming effect could be faster and more severe than current models predict.

Intentionally increasing dimming through 'solar radiation management' (e.g., injecting aerosols into the stratosphere) is a proposed but highly controversial geoengineering idea. It does not address the root cause (greenhouse gases) and carries significant risks and side-effects.

A measurable reduction in the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface, primarily caused by particulate pollution in the atmosphere.

Global dimming is usually academic, scientific, environmental journalism in register.

Global dimming: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɡləʊb(ə)l ˈdɪmɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɡloʊb(ə)l ˈdɪmɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.