This is the most accurate report on the effects of climate change since 2014. This Monday was published the second part of the IPCC report. He highlights the absolute necessity of maintaining the global rise in the thermometer at 1.5 degrees. Otherwise, irreparable damage will be to be deplored.
“I have seen many scientific reports. But never one like this. The IPCC report is an atlas of human suffering and a damning indictment of failed climate leadership.” It is with these strong words that Antonio Guterres, Secretary General of the UN, opened the conference presenting the IPCC report.
The experts are unanimous, the effects of global warming are becoming more and more threatening for the planet and its civilizations. The second part of the document published this afternoon mentions four major risks.
First, an increase in the death rate due to rising temperatures. Then, crop losses due to drought; with low adaptive capacity to find a way to irrigate, since access to water will be limited.
With a rise of +2 to +3 degrees, more than a third of the population of southern Europe will be exposed to much more limited access to water. Finally and beyond +3 degrees, the people affected by flooding and the cost of collateral damage could double.
Possible adaptations to explore
After these observations comes the time to propose solutions. By going through a change of behavior and way of thinking about buildings, the urban environment. Changes in farm practices and plantation management. Improve water storage and reuse and establish early warning systems to prevent disasters.
Other avenues addressed more generally, the exit from fossil fuels or even sanctuarizing at least 30% of land and sea surfaces.
Europe, average student
In this report, Europe is named as the region of the world with the most room for maneuver but notes great obstacles to achieving these objectives. These include limited resources, a lack of engagement from the private sector and citizens, and a diminished sense of urgency.
The 3rd part of the report will be published in April. It will be devoted to solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, before a summary scheduled for September.