Climate Crisis: UN Warns Global Warming May Hit 3°C This Century
Global Climate Goals Slipping Away
The world is far off track in tackling the climate crisis, with the United Nations warning that the Paris climate accord goals of keeping global temperature rises below 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels are rapidly slipping away.
Record-Breaking Emissions
The latest report from the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) highlighted that greenhouse gas concentrations have hit record levels, fuelling temperature increases into the future. WMO chief Celeste Saulo told reporters in Geneva, "The science is clear: We are far off track from achieving global climate goals."
Two-Thirds Likelihood of 3°C Warmth
If current policies remain unchanged, there is now a two-thirds likelihood that global warming will hit 3°C this century, the report warned. Saulo noted that 2023 was already the warmest year on record "by a huge margin" and the first eight months of this year had followed the same trend, sounding the "red alert for the planet".
Hope in Technology and Innovation
However, Saulo stressed that "there is hope". She pointed to advances in natural and social sciences, as well as technological innovations, which could be "game changers for climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction and sustainable development".
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI and machine learning, in particular, could be "transformative technologies", enabling a "paradigm shift in predicting extreme and hazardous weather events". The technologies, which rapidly improve the ability to process vast amounts of data, could make skilful weather modelling faster, cheaper, and more accessible.
Space-Based Earth Observations
Space-based Earth observations have also been a significant advancement, opening new frontiers in understanding weather, climate, water, and environmental patterns. Satellite technologies enable extreme weather forecasting in difficult-to-reach regions, as well as areas lacking ground-based observations.
Energy Efficiency
The WMO acknowledged that new technologies can also have negative impacts on climate action, such as significant energy use. Saulo called on countries to "put controls in place so that these developments are for the benefit of the global community, and avoid the negative impacts".
Conclusion
The world is at a critical juncture in the climate crisis. The latest report from the WMO serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for action. While there may be hope in technology and innovation, it is crucial that countries take immediate and drastic measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to sustainable energy sources. The future of the planet depends on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current state of the climate crisis?
A: The world is far off track in tackling the climate crisis, with greenhouse gas concentrations at record levels.
Q: What are the consequences of inaction?
A: If current policies remain unchanged, there is a two-thirds likelihood of global warming hitting 3°C this century, with devastating consequences.
Q: What is the role of technology in combating climate change?
A: AI, machine learning, and space-based Earth observations have the potential to be "game changers" in addressing climate change, but must be used responsibly and sustainably.