1.5 degrees – the hottest year on record

Copernicus, the European science agency announced recently that, for the first time ever, global average heating exceeded 1.5 degrees Celsius (on average), for a 12-month period.

When we talk about "global average heating," we're referring to how much warmer the planet, on average, has become above pre-industrial levels. In this context, the statement "global average heating exceeded 1.5 degrees Celsius" means that the average temperature of the entire Earth's surface and atmosphere was 1.5 degrees Celsius higher for a whole 12-month period for the first time.

The 1.5 degrees Celsius figure is significant because it represents a threshold that many scientists and policymakers consider a critical limit for avoiding some of the worst impacts of climate change. This threshold was highlighted in the Paris Agreement as a goal to limit global warming, aiming to prevent more severe consequences such as extreme weather events, sea level rise, and ecosystem disruptions.

So what are climate scientists saying must happen next?

Urgency of Action:

Immediate Action Needed: This breach is a clear signal that urgent and significant action is required to address climate change. The consequences of surpassing this threshold could be severe and irreversible.

Accelerated Efforts: There must be accelerated efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This includes transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing policies to limit carbon emissions.

Impact on Climate Change:

Increased Risks: Surpassing 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming increases the risks of more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise.

Tipping Points: There is concern about triggering irreversible tipping points in the climate system, such as the melting of polar ice caps or the release of methane from thawing permafrost.

Paris Agreement Goals:

Reassessing Goals: Should this breach prompt a reassessment of the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. Scientists argue that current commitments may not be sufficient to limit global warming to safe levels.

Raising Ambition: The breach highlights the need for countries to increase their ambition in reducing emissions and implementing climate mitigation and adaptation measures.

Equity and Vulnerability:

Impacts on Vulnerable Communities: The impacts of climate change are disproportionately felt by vulnerable communities, including low-income populations and developing countries.

Global Solidarity: There is a call for global solidarity and cooperation to address climate change, recognizing that it is a global challenge that requires collective action.

Hope and Solutions:

Room for Action: While the breach of 1.5 degrees Celsius is concerning, experts also emphasize that there is still room for action to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change.

Innovative Solutions: There is optimism about the potential for innovative solutions, such as carbon capture and storage technologies, sustainable land-use practices, and nature-based solutions.

In summary, experts are highlighting the urgent need for action, the risks posed by surpassing the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold, and the importance of global cooperation and equity in addressing climate change. The breach serves as a stark reminder of the scale of the challenge and the need for decisive and immediate responses. This is no time to rest in our efforts to combat climate change and we hope whoever the next government is keeps this as the highest priority.