Seasonal allergies, climate change linked, experts say

As summer approaches and plants flower, pollen production is on the rise, and seasonal allergies are in full effect. One significant factor in pollen production is carbon dioxide, and the effects of climate change are a growing concern. Though CO2 can enhance photosynthesis, according to an Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Research study, climate change has led to longer growing seasons and an increase in pollen production, consequently worsening seasonal allergies.

In an email statement to The Badger Herald, University of Wisconsin atmospheric and oceanic professor Jonathan Martin explained the causes and effects of climate change.

“The most basic underlying cause of the ongoing global warming/climate change is the rapid increase in CO2 that has accrued since the dawn of the industrial age,” Martin said.