The Current Global Situation
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) (2023) state in their report that –
Human activities, principally through emissions of greenhouse gases, have unequivocally caused global warming, with global surface temperature reaching 1.1°C above 1850-1900 in the period 2011 to 2020.
Widespread and rapid changes in the atmosphere, ocean, cryosphere and biosphere have occurred. Human-caused climate change is already affecting many weather and climate extremes in every region across the globe. This has led to widespread adverse impacts and related losses and damages to nature and people. Vulnerable communities who have historically contributed the least to current climate changes are disproportionately affected.
The facts are now clear -
- Global temperatures of the earth and oceans are rising
- Sea levels are rising
- Weather patterns are changing – leading to an increase in the frequency and impact of heatwaves, heavier rainfall, drought and flooding events.
- Ecosystems are damaged and approaching a point where this becomes irreversible
- Frequency of pest and disease incidences are rising
- People are now suffering food and water insecurity
- The impacts of climate change are affecting some communities far more than others
- Every region of the world will face increases in climate hazards
But it is still not too late to act. By limiting, adapting to, and taking urgent action now, we can reduce greenhouse gases, support the earth’s natural processes and make positive changes to the way we currently live our lives.