Just two degrees to global disaster
Scientists’ last chance alert
DRASTIC immediate action by the world’s governments is needed to avoid a global warming catastrophe, a landmark report warns.
Even pledges already made by countries to cut emissions still put the world on course for a disastrous 3C of warming by the end of the century.
Experts on the UN’s International Panel on Climate Change have warned there is only 12 years for global warming to be kept to a maximum of 1.5C.
Beyond that even half a degree will significantly worsen the risks of drought, floods, extreme heat and poverty.
If temperatures increase by more than 1.5C, sea-levels will drastically rise, wiping out islands and low-lying countries.
Droughts, floods and widespread disease would also increase, as weather patterns become more extreme and unpredictable – leading to food shortages and wiping out some species of animals.
The report authors said urgent changes are needed to reach the target, although it lies at the most ambitious end of the Paris agreement pledge to keep temperatures between 1.5C and 2C.
The half-degree difference could also
Debra Roberts prevent corals from being completely eradicated and ease pressure on the Arctic, according to the 1.5C study, which was launched after the approval 195 countries in Incheon, South Korea. The ratification saw delegates hugging one another – with some in tears.
Yesterday’s report, drawn from 6,000 research papers by scientists assembled by the UN, warned: “The next few years are probably the most important in our history.”
Debra Roberts, co-chair of the working group, said: “This is the largest clarion bell from the science community and I hope it mobilises people, and dents the mood of complaof cency.” Co-chair Jim Skea added: “We have pointed out the enormous benefits of keeping to 1.5C – and also the unprecedented shift in energy systems and transport that would be needed to achieve that.”
Moves to slash emissions to