A Climate Crisis Unfolding
In 2000, Nobel laureate Paul Crutzen coined the term “Anthropocene” – a new geological epoch marked by human-driven planetary changes. Two decades later, the reality of the Anthropocene has arrived, with 2023 seeing unprecedented climate extremes.
Key Observations:
- Global temperatures exceeding the 1.5°C safe limit for 38 days in September 2023.
- Record-breaking heatwaves, wildfires, and floods intensifying across the globe.
- Atmospheric CO2 levels reaching 420 ppm, up from 370 ppm in 2000 and climbing by 2 ppm annually.
- The last two years witnessing dramatic sea ice melting in the Arctic and Antarctica.
- A sharp rise in atmospheric methane since 2006, further intensifying warming.
The Consequences:
These changes have already pushed Earth’s climate to levels not seen in 120,000 years, with further warming expected due to various climate feedbacks. Studies predict several meters of sea level rise over centuries, even in optimistic scenarios.
A 50,000-Year Legacy: The Anthropocene’s Long Shadow
The Earth’s climate has been controlled by natural cycles for millions of years. However, human activities have injected a trillion tons of CO2 into the atmosphere in just over a century, disrupting this delicate balance.
Modelling studies:
- Reveal a new, altered climate pattern persisting for at least 50,000 years, signifying a fundamental and irreversible change to our planet.
- Compare this shift to some of the most significant climate change events in Earth’s history.
COP28: A Crucial Moment for Action
While achieving net-zero emissions is critical, it’s only the first step. COP28, despite strong fossil fuel industry representation, presents a crucial opportunity to address this unprecedented challenge.
The Need for Negative Emissions:
- To restore a climate optimal for humanity and life as we know it, negative emissions technologies are required.
- These technologies aim to remove carbon from the atmosphere and ocean, storing it back underground.
Looking Towards the Future:
The decisions made at COP28 and beyond will have profound implications for future generations. It’s imperative to act decisively and implement effective strategies to mitigate climate change before its long-term consequences become irreversible.
Join the Movement:
- Advocate for ambitious climate policies and support organizations working towards sustainable solutions.
- Reduce your own carbon footprint and encourage others to do the same.
- Stay informed about the latest developments and engage in constructive dialogue about climate change.
By working together, we can create a future where humanity thrives in harmony with a healthy planet.