For the first time, the average global temperature over three years has surpassed the critical threshold set by the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aims to limit warming to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. This breach underscores the urgent need for action, as remaining below this limit is crucial for preventing catastrophic environmental impacts and saving lives worldwide.
Experts emphasize that the consequences of exceeding this threshold are profound. “The geopolitical climate is particularly turbulent this year, with many policymakers prioritizing the interests of the fossil fuel industry over the well-being of their populations,” remarked Otto. This situation is compounded by a surge in misinformation, complicating public understanding and response.
Andrew Kruczkiewicz, a senior researcher at Columbia University’s Climate School, who did not participate in the World Weather Attribution’s recent work, highlighted the growing intensity and complexity of extreme weather events. He pointed out that many regions are now encountering disasters they have never faced before. This escalation necessitates not only more advanced warning systems but also innovative strategies for response and recovery.
“And we have a huge amount of mis- and disinformation that people have to deal with.”
Andrew Kruczkiewicz, a senior researcher at the Columbia University Climate School who wasn’t involved in the WWA work, said places are seeing disasters they aren’t used to, extreme events are intensifying faster and they are becoming more complex.
That requires earlier warnings and new approaches to response and recovery, he said.
“On a global scale, progress is being made,” he added, “but we must do more.”
