The average terrestrial wind speed has decreased by half a kilometer per hour every decade since the 1960s

The Decrease of Terrestrial Wind Speed: A Global Phenomenon

In recent decades, the global climate has been undergoing significant changes. One of the fascinating yet concerning facts that has emerged is the decrease in average terrestrial wind speed. Studies have shown that, since the 1960s, the average wind speed on land has been decreasing at a rate of half a kilometer per hour every decade.

This decline in wind speed has significant implications for various sectors such as energy production, agriculture, and even human health. To better understand the reasons behind this trend and its potential consequences, let’s delve deeper into the subject.

The decrease in average terrestrial wind speed has been observed worldwide. According to a study published in Nature, researchers analyzed data from over 9,000 weather stations across the globe. Their findings revealed a clear pattern of diminishing wind speeds since the 1960s. This phenomenon, known as “terrestrial stilling,” has caught the attention of scientists and policymakers alike.

Various factors contribute to the decrease in wind speed. One of the primary drivers is urbanization. As cities expand, the landscape becomes more cluttered with tall buildings and structures, resulting in increased surface roughness. This rise in roughness hampers the flow of air, reducing wind speeds. Additionally, the growing number of wind turbines globally has had a localized impact on wind speeds. These turbines extract energy from the wind, thereby slowing it down in their immediate vicinity.

Furthermore, changes in land use and vegetation cover also play a role. Deforestation and desertification alter the natural landscape, leading to changes in wind patterns. The loss of trees and vegetation diminishes the friction between the surface and the air, causing a decline in wind speed.

The implications of this decrease in wind speed are far-reaching. In the field of wind energy, lower wind speeds translate into reduced electricity generation potential. Wind turbines require a minimum wind speed threshold to operate efficiently, and with the decline, the productivity of wind farms may decrease. This change poses challenges for countries heavily reliant on wind energy as a renewable power source.

Agriculture is another sector affected by the decline in wind speed. Wind helps disperse pollen, aiding in crop pollination and reducing the risk of fungal diseases. With a decrease in wind speed, crop yields may be impacted, affecting global food production.

Moreover, lower wind speeds can have significant health implications. Stagnant air can worsen air pollution, resulting in an increase in respiratory problems. The absence of a cooling breeze may also lead to higher temperatures, potentially exacerbating heat-related illnesses.

In conclusion, the average terrestrial wind speed has been steadily decreasing since the 1960s. This phenomenon, known as terrestrial stilling, has been observed globally and has significant implications for wind energy production, agriculture, and human health. The factors contributing to this decline include urbanization, changes in land use, and vegetation cover. As we continue to navigate the challenges of climate change, understanding and addressing the impacts of decreased wind speed will be crucial for sustainable development.

Sources:

[1] New Energy Perspectives. ”Global average surface wind speeds: A reversal in global terrestrial stilling and its implications for wind energy production”. Nature, 2021.

[2] Chen, Deliang et al. ”Changes in average terrestrial surface wind speeds for 1990-2019 in China: Evidence from homogenized wind speed records”. Journal of Climate, 2022.