Climate crisis enters ‘critical and unpredictable new phase’

25 of 35 planetary indicators at all-time highs. And, emissions hit an unprecedented peak.
October 9, 2024
A Person Wearing a Brown Sweater Holding a Burning Globe
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From Climate & Capitalism

Summary

Scientists warn that humanity’s future is at risk due to a climate crisis entering a “critical and unpredictable” phase. The 2024 State of the Climate Report highlights alarming trends, with record extremes in 25 of 35 monitored indicators, including fossil fuel emissions, temperature rise, and biodiversity loss. Immediate action is needed to mitigate impacts and protect future generations.

Highlights 🌍

  1. Climate Emergency: A global emergency threatens life on Earth. 🚨
  2. Record Extremes: 25 of 35 planetary indicators at all-time highs. 📊
  3. Fossil Fuel Surge: Emissions hit an unprecedented peak. ⛽
  4. Heat Waves: Recent heat waves in Asia caused thousands of deaths. 🔥
  5. Displacement Crisis: Millions displaced, with billions at risk. 🏚️
  6. Biodiversity Loss: Tree cover loss surged significantly. 🌳
  7. Urgent Action Needed: Immediate steps required to avert disaster. ⏳

This blunt warning opens The 2024 State of the Climate Report published yesterday in the journal BioScience.

“We are on the brink of an irreversible climate disaster. This is a global emergency beyond any doubt. Much of the very fabric of life on Earth is imperiled. We are stepping into a critical and unpredictable new phase of the climate crisis.”

An international coalition of scientists headed by William Ripple and Christopher Wolf of Oregon State University tracks 35 planetary vital signs. This year, 25 of those indicators are at record extremes.

Read the full post at Climate & Capitalism.

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