Pollen Season is Worse because of Climate Chang
Why We Need to Take Action, and How
The signs of spring are here — budding blooms, chirping birds, sneezing humans with itchy eyes and runny noses. Those allergy symptoms have been getting worse over the past few decades, and the reason may surprise you: Climate change.
Scientists have found that allergy seasons are getting longer and more severe. Human-caused climate change is the “dominant driver” of these longer pollen seasons and is a major reason for increasing concentrations of pollen.
Compared to 30 years ago, the pollen season is starting 20 days earlier and lasting for almost a month longer. This is mainly because of increasing temperatures from climate change.
Health impacts of more pollen, longer seasons
Birch trees are a primary source of pollen. These trees can be found across the state and are the third most abundant pollen type found in Seattle. Scientists predict there will be eight times as much birch pollen in our region by the end of the century.