The earth’s temperature is on track to increase heat by 2.7 degrees Celsius (or 36.8 degrees Fahrenheit). UN Chief Antonio Guterres warned that such an increase in temperature would be “catastrophic” and called on the world to act.
If the earth were to increase 2.7 degrees Celsius, Paris climate agreement figures aimed for warming below 2C would be destroyed. Guterres went on to say that “Failure to meet [climate goals] will be measured in the massive loss of lives and livelihoods.”
Unfortunately, many nations have been slow in responding to the Paris agreement, failing to slash emissions or aid climate-vulnerable countries. With temperatures rising, the opportunity to make a difference is starting to close.
In response to these findings, US President Joe Biden said that “We have to act, all of us, we have to act now.” He urged the world to bring its highest ambition to the UN Climate Conference taking place in November.
As of now, the earth’s average temperature will be 1.5C higher around 2030, which is a decade earlier than projected just three years ago. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development said they were disappointed in the progress made. UN Climate Chief Patricia Espinosa said that “Overall greenhouse gas emission numbers are moving in the wrong direction.”
If you think about it, the world is already seeing extreme weather patterns that have resulted in the loss of life and property. No country or person is unaffected by climate change. All can see the impact climate change has on their own lives and lives worldwide each day. What more do people need to get on board? Without action, these disasters will only continue to increase.
As discouraging as this news is, hope is not lost. 113 countries – including the US and those within the European Union have updated their pledges, expressing their commitment to carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions.
The carbon market is also expanding, which can reduce emissions and support socio-economic issues – providing companies and individuals alike the opportunity to grow.
As interest in the carbon market increases and more offset projects take place, these figures can improve. However, the fight against climate change can no longer be conducted by a brave few. The world needs to get on board by combating climate change together.