Why Is the World Warming?

• Human Impact:
  • The Earth's climate has naturally changed over time, but recent rapid warming is caused by human activities.
  • The burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to a "blanket effect" that warms the planet.
  • Since the Industrial Revolution, CO2 levels in the atmosphere have increased by about 50%, far above levels seen in the Earth's recent history.

Effects of Climate Change So Far

• Rising Temperatures:
  • Global temperatures have increased by about 1.2°C since the late 19th century, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events like heatwaves, storms, and heavy rainfall.
  • Melting glaciers and ice sheets contribute to rising sea levels.
  • Oceans are warming, which fuels more intense storms and harms marine ecosystems like coral reefs.
• Notable Events:
  • The impact of climate change was seen in 2024 hurricanes (Helene and Milton), which caused over $50 billion in damage and hundreds of fatalities.
  • A major drought in East Africa in 2022 was exacerbated by climate change, affecting millions.

Why Does 1.5°C Matter?

• Temperature Thresholds:
  • The 1.5°C target is critical for limiting the worst effects of climate change. Exceeding this threshold will worsen impacts like:
    • Hotter Days: Temperatures could rise by 4°C (instead of 3°C) at mid-latitudes.
    • Sea-Level Rise: A 0.1m higher rise in sea levels could expose millions more to flooding.
    • Loss of Ecosystems: More than 99% of coral reefs could be lost at 2°C, compared to 70-90% at 1.5°C.
  • Beyond 1.5°C, climate changes could reach "tipping points," causing irreversible effects, like the collapse of ice sheets.

Impact on People and Nature

• Vulnerable Communities:
  • People in poorer countries, who are less responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
  • Around 3.3 to 3.6 billion people are highly vulnerable, especially as crop failures and extreme weather events drive up food prices and disrupt lives.

What Are Governments Doing?

• International Efforts:
  • In 2015, nearly 200 countries signed the Paris Agreement, aiming to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
  • The UN's goal is to achieve "net-zero" emissions by 2050, meaning countries must reduce emissions as much as possible and remove remaining CO2 from the atmosphere.
  • While some progress has been made in renewable energy and electric vehicles, global CO2 emissions continue to rise, and the world is likely to warm beyond 1.5°C.
• COP29:
  • The COP29 summit focused on securing financial support from wealthier nations to help poorer countries cope with climate change.

What Can Individuals Do?

While large-scale action is needed from governments and businesses, individuals can also contribute by:

• Reducing air travel
• Using less energy and improving home insulation
• Switching to electric vehicles or living car-free
• Reducing red meat consumption

By taking these actions, individuals can help reduce their carbon footprint and support the transition to a more sustainable future.

Conclusion

Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges today, with far-reaching consequences for people, ecosystems, and economies. While urgent action from governments and businesses is critical, individuals also have a role to play in limiting the impact of climate change.