Allergic Living has reported in past on how climate change is extending growing seasons and pollination. But if you think pollen counts today are bad, Rutgers University scientists say: just wait for 2040.
According to a study presented by Dr. Leonard Bielory at the annual meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology in November 2012, pollen counts are expected to more than double by that year.
Bielory, who is a leading investigator of plants and climate change, explains that in the year 2000, pollen counts averaged 8,455. By 2040, they are predicted to reach 21,735.
To create these far-reaching forecasts, the Rutgers researchers study allergenic plants in special climate chambers that mimic future conditions.
Naturally, along with this news there was a related finding: the sneezing season will begin earlier every year.