Planet earth is on the sick bed
Never has the earth been so unhealthy
RNfinity | 26-10-2023As we approach the midpoint of this critical decade for climate action, here's an up-to-date Q&A addressing key aspects of climate change in 2025:
Q: What is the current state of global warming?
As of 2025, the world has already warmed by approximately 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels. The Met Office expects average global temperature in 2025 to be between 1.29°C to 1.53°C above pre-industrial temperatures. There's a more than 50% chance that global temperature rise will reach or surpass 1.5°C between 2021 and 2040.
Q: What are the latest climate change facts and statistics?
Key facts as of 2025 include:
- Over 3 billion people's lives and livelihoods are threatened by climate change impacts
- 61 out of 64 countries assessed have increased their share of renewables in the past five years
- Global greenhouse gas emissions need to peak before 2025 to limit warming to 1.5°C
Q: What progress has been made in addressing climate change?
While challenges remain, some progress has been made:
- Rapid advancements in renewable energy across high-emitting countries
- Technological improvements in carbon capture, green hydrogen, and battery storage
- Increased global focus on climate resilient development
Q: What are the main causes of climate change?
The primary causes include:
- Burning of fossil fuels
- Deforestation and land-use changes
- Industrial processes
- Agricultural practices
Q: What are the effects of global warming and the greenhouse effect?
Key impacts include:
- Rising sea levels threatening coastal communities
- Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events
- Disruption of ecosystems and biodiversity loss
- Changes in precipitation patterns affecting agriculture
Q: What role does the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) play?
The IPCC provides comprehensive scientific assessments on climate change. Their latest Sixth Assessment Report, completed in March 2023, offers crucial insights into the current state of climate change and potential solutions.
Q: What are some key climate change solutions?
Effective solutions include:
- Rapid transition to renewable energy sources
- Implementing energy efficiency measures
- Protecting and restoring ecosystems
- Developing sustainable transportation and urban planning
- Advancing climate-smart agriculture
Q: What is the significance of COP meetings in addressing climate change?
COP (Conference of the Parties) meetings, such as COP26, COP27, and the upcoming COP30, are crucial global forums for negotiating international climate action. They play a vital role in setting targets, sharing progress, and coordinating global efforts to combat climate change.
Q: How can individuals contribute to climate action?
Individuals can make a difference by:
- Reducing personal carbon footprints
- Supporting renewable energy initiatives
- Advocating for climate-friendly policies
- Making sustainable consumer choices
- Participating in local climate change organizations
Early Foundations
- COP1 (Berlin, 1995): First conference where parties agreed to meet annually to address climate change
- COP3 (Kyoto, 1997): Adoption of the Kyoto Protocol, setting emission reduction targets for industrialized countries
- COP7 (Marrakech, 2001): Finalization of the Marrakech Accords, detailing operational rules for emissions trading and other mechanisms
Expanding Global Efforts
- COP13 (Bali, 2007): Bali Roadmap established, setting a timeline for a new international agreement
- COP15 (Copenhagen, 2009): Agreement to limit global warming to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels
- COP16 (Cancun, 2010): Creation of the Green Climate Fund for climate actions in developing countries
- COP17 (Durban, 2011): Agreement to negotiate a global climate deal by 2015
Landmark Agreements
- COP21 (Paris, 2015): Adoption of the Paris Agreement, aiming to limit global warming to well below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C
- COP22 (Marrakesh, 2016): Paris Agreement enters into force, adoption of the Marrakesh Action Proclamation
- COP26 (Glasgow, 2021): Glasgow Climate Pact agreed, urging increased climate ambition and action
- COP28 (Dubai, 2023): First agreement to "transition away" from fossil fuels in energy systems
As we face the climate crisis, it's crucial to stay informed about the latest developments and take action at all levels - from individual choices to global policies - to secure a sustainable future for our planet.
2023 saw an unprecedented acceleration in climate change. A
recent article published in the journal Bioscience has documented an alarming deterioration
in many indicators of climate change. Planet earth’s vital signs have never
been so critical. 2023 saw record average surface temperature and sea
temperatures. Global Antarctic Sea ice reach its lowest ever levels of extent.
Fossil fuel usage remains high globally and a transition to renewable fuels which
was anticipated post Covid 19 pandemic has failed to materialise.
The three most important greenhouse gases Co2 Nitrous oxide
and methane are all at record level within the atmosphere in 2023. There were a
record number of extreme weather events throughout the world. The current
situation risks precipitated a cycle of climate events that accelerate changes.
A larger proportion of the world face food insecurity and malnourishment
The rapid rate of change has surprised many scientists, as
previous predictions have been surpassed. We may be on the precipice of global
catastrophe. More need to be done and sooner to arrest the climate change
process. Policy makers still struggle to move away from shorter term policies
which may have a stronger short term economic footing. The warning signs are
certainly there.