Humanity can still limit global warming to 1.5°C this century. But political action will determine whether it actually does. Conflating the two questions amounts to dangerous, misplaced punditry.
Discord and doubt are the last things the world needs at this critical moment.
Global fossil fuel emissions dropped by about seven per cent in 2020 compared with 2019. But a rebound is likely to occur when lockdowns ease up unless COVID-19 recovery packages focus on ‘green recovery.’
(AP Photo/Michael Probst)
Several countries have made pledges to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to zero by mid-century. But new research finds the remaining carbon budget will be depleted before we get there.
To limit warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, we’ll need to cut global emissions by 7.6% each year this decade. It’s difficult, but not impossible.
Water tower of the Andes.
Lynn Johnson/National Geographic
The climate emergency requires the full mobilisation of scientific institutions, but the persistent compartmentalization between disciplines and difficulties of adaptation hinder their action.
Drought is just one reason why it matters to keep global heating below 1.5C.
Nic Bothma/EPA
Nations are signed up to limit global heating to well below 2°C, and to aim for 1.5°C. Limiting warming to the latter matters - the future of humanity and the living world is at stake.
Whether to attending a conferences or giving in to a meeting, the global research community is keen on air travel. That’s a habit that needs to change.
An NGO representative stands in front of a replica of the Eiffel Tower at the Paris climate change conference in December 2015.
(Michel Euler/AP Photo)