Code Red for Humanity Means that Big Emitters Need to Get Their Act Together

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report released on Monday rocked a lot of people, including those who probably did not believe about our warming planet. And so it should.

Like the science that backs our global COVID-19 recovery efforts, science now also confirms what we already know and experience here on the front line of climate change.

When put in context, we contribute a mere fraction to this climate catastrophe.

And we’ve been harping about it for years. Yet it seemed to be falling on deaf ears.

Until we get struck by either a category 4 and 5 cyclone, landslides, sea-level rise and flooding. Immediately we get a global mention along with the muchneeded assistance from friends.

Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Henry Puna’s comments were spot on.

“Of major concern for the Blue Pacific Continent and the future of our island homes, is the fact sea levels could rise by two metres by 2100 and a disastrous five metres by 2150.

“The report also found that extreme sea level events that previously occurred once in 100 years could happen every year by the end of this century.

“To put this into perspective, this will result in the loss of millions of lives, homes and livelihoods across the Pacific and the world.

We are on the brink of a climate catastrophe, with a narrow window to act.”

This is our new reality unless something drastic is done. This means the major emitters of the world need to cut the talk and walk the walk. They need to get their act together if we are to survive.

While their continued help in our times of crisis is appreciated, it’s not enough.

Our future depends on their actions.

The 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP26, can’t be just another two weeks of talk, dialogue and negotiations.

Mr Puna said it must be a turning point to deliver major emissions reductions and the necessary financial support for vulnerable countries to build resilience and adapt to climate change impacts.

The whole process of realising our dire trajectory can create painful and even despairing emotions. And that can also be a good thing that drives us to be intentional in what we do – even in our everyday lives.

In some developed countries, those who find themselves so depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed by the climate crisis can call on a climate-aware therapist. That’s right. A group of experts have come together to help people live more comfortably with their climate-awareness through diverse methods and practices.

While we don’t yet have such luxury, it should seriously be considered.