“World Can Still Avoid Worst of Climate Collapse with Genuine Change,” Says IPCC

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has stated that humanity can still avoid the worst impacts of climate breakdown by adopting “multiple, feasible, and effective options.” The world’s leading climate scientists, who make up the IPCC, emphasize that our future is ours to shape. By leveraging our knowledge and technology, we can build a more prosperous, inclusive, and equitable society while addressing Climate change.

According to the final section of the IPCC’s sixth assessment report (AR6), finance is a crucial factor in the shift to a low-carbon economy. Green investment must increase by three to six times current levels. Climate justice is also essential, as those hit hardest by the crisis tend to be the most vulnerable and have contributed the least to the problem.

The IPCC’s positive framing of the new report is a deliberate response to the many voices claiming that the world has little chance of limiting global heating to 1.5°C above preindustrial levels. Chris Jones of the Met Office Hadley Centre explained that emissions fell by 6% in 2020 due to Covid-19 lockdowns. However, a similar reduction must be achieved each year for the next decade to keep the global temperature rise below 1.5°C.

The AR6 report, published in three main sections from August 2021 to April 2022, was delayed slightly due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The sections cover the science of the climate system, the impacts of climate breakdown, and ways to tackle or reduce the problem, followed by the synthesis chapter.

The latest IPCC Synthesis Report (released March 20th 2023) indicates that Climate change is worsening, but we possess the tools to combat it. The report confirms that human activity is driving greenhouse gas emissions to record levels, resulting in global temperature rises and harmful impacts on people and ecosystems. However, existing policies, technologies, and measures have demonstrated success in reducing emissions. Scaling up these efforts could significantly cut emissions across the global economy, with many options offering low costs and additional benefits. Despite the need for urgent action, current global adaptation efforts lag behind the increasing impacts of Climate change. Effective adaptation requires increased investment in research, long-term planning, and inclusive approaches.

The next decade will be critical, as decisions made now will affect the planet’s future for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Simon Stiell, the UN’s top climate official, said that although we are far off-track, it is not too late to limit Global warming to 1.5°C. The IPCC has identified numerous feasible, effective, and low-cost mitigation and adaptation options for scaling up across sectors and countries.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for an “acceleration agenda” involving all G20 countries. He urged developed countries to advance their net-zero greenhouse gas emissions commitments from 2050 to as close as possible to 2040. Additionally, emerging economies should aim to reach net-zero by 2050 or as close as possible, rather than the second half of the century.

Guterres also called for phasing out coal by 2030 in developed countries and by 2040 in all others. He recommended no new licensing or funding for oil and gas projects, based on the International Energy Agency’s findings that all new oil and gas development must cease to limit global heating to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

While the falling price of renewable energy technology makes it an attractive investment, fossil fuel companies continue to reap record profits, with many planning to reinvest in more fossil fuels. Ed Miliband, the UK’s shadow secretary for Climate change, agrees with Guterres’ call for urgency in fighting Climate change.

In conclusion, while the challenge to limit Global warming to 1.5°C is immense, it is not too late to take action. By focusing on finance, climate justice, and embracing feasible, effective, and low-cost mitigation and adaptation options, we can make a difference. Let us all do our part to create a greener, more sustainable future. As individuals, communities, or countries, we must all take action, push for change, and demand that our leaders prioritize the fight against Climate change. Together, we can shape a better future for generations to come.

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