A coalition of 15,000 scientists is sounding the alarm about an imminent, irreversible climate catastrophe. Their latest report, published a month before the U.N. climate summit in Azerbaijan, emphasizes that extreme weather events are accelerating in succession and becoming more severe. “We are on the brink of a critical, unforeseen phase in the climate crisis,” the report said.
The warnings are not new, but the urgency with which they are now being expressed is. This large group of scientists, including leading climate experts, highlights the alarming speed at which climate change is occurring. The report speaks of “record-breaking temperature increases, the disappearance of ice caps, and an increase in climate disasters that threaten humanity at an accelerating rate.”
Unpredictable extremes
The picture painted is one of unpredictable extremes. Floods, heat waves, droughts, and hurricanes rapidly follow one another. The Netherlands, traditionally a master of water management, is now also feeling the effects of droughts and forest fires.
The “vital signs” of the planet being tracked include a wide range of indicators, such as the number of people and livestock on Earth, deforestation, sea ice loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. The trend is clear: what science warned about is now becoming reality. By 2024, global carbon emissions exceeded 40 gigatons.
The threat of ‘tipping points’
Scientists warn of the danger of ‘tipping points,’ thresholds that, once crossed, lead to irreversible changes in the climate system. One example is the release of toxic metals into Arctic rivers, a direct result of permafrost thawing. Such developments can have far-reaching consequences for the environment and human health.
Climate policy at a crossroads
The upcoming climate summit in Baku will have to reach new agreements on climate finance. Rich countries have previously promised to provide at least €100 billion annually until 2025 for countries hit harder by climate change. The report calls for bold actions, including a rapid phase-out of fossil fuels and a higher price on greenhouse gas emissions.
Recent climate disasters signal that climate change is challenging our understanding and models. Storms, droughts, heat waves, and floods cause human suffering and wreak economic havoc. Recovery costs run into billions of dollars, and the question is how long these expenditures can be sustained.
Towards a future-proof climate policy
Scientists agree that action is urgent. Recommendations range from introducing a global carbon tax to encouraging plant-based diets and promoting sustainable economic models.
Another important aspect highlighted is integrating climate change into education programs worldwide. Knowledge and awareness are crucial to shaping a future where humans live harmoniously with nature. Each generation is responsible for meeting this challenge and adapting to changing conditions.
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