Fossil Fuel Combustion Is Driving Indoor CO ₂ Toward Levels Harmful to Human Cognition

摘要

Human activities are elevating atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations to levels unprecedented in human history. The majority of anticipated impacts of anthropogenic CO_(2)emissions are mediated by climate warming. Recent experimental studies in the fields of indoor air quality and cognitive psychology and neuroscience, however, have revealed significant direct effects of indoor CO_(2)levels on cognitive function. Here, we shed light on this connection and estimate the impact of continued fossil fuel emissions on human cognition. We conclude that indoor CO_(2)levels may indeed reach levels harmful to cognition by the end of this century, and the best way to prevent this hidden consequence of climate change is to reduce fossil fuel emissions. Finally, we offer recommendations for a broad, interdisciplinary approach to improving such understanding and prediction. Key Points Atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations are reaching levels never experienced byHomo sapiens Recent experiments have linked high indoor carbon dioxide concentrations to reduced cognitive function Our models predict that future carbon emissions will increase indoor concentrations to levels harmful to human cognition