Despite all the fine words, things are only getting worse…
Scientists have made an alarming observation. Rising CO2 levels will inevitably lead to a rise in global temperatures and all the resulting disasters.
A SAD RECORD
With 400 parts per million (ppm) in the atmosphere, it was previously thought that the carbon dioxide level was not as high as it was 800,000 years ago. Recent research has shown that we were seriously mistaken. In fact, our CO2 emission levels have never been this high since the Pliocene, 3 million years ago. At that time, temperatures were 3 to 4 °C higher, and sea levels were 15 meters higher.
Matteo Willeit, a researcher at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, stated that at that time, “”There were neither glacial cycles nor large ice caps in the Northern Hemisphere. CO₂ levels were too high and the climate too warm to allow for them." A troubling statement that serves as a reminder of how important it is to take action to protect the planet.
THE PARIS AGREEMENT IS NOT BEING FOLLOWED
In 2015, the Paris Agreement aimed to limit global warming to +2°C, but that seems very difficult. Some researchers believe we won’t be able to prevent temperatures from rising by +3°C. We would need to reduce our CO2 emissions by 50 % over the next 10 years. France had committed to lowering its carbon emissions, but they began rising again in 2017.
The absence of world leaders at various climate rallies is also cause for concern. It clearly shows a serious lack of interest in climate change.
THE PLANET IS IN DANGER
The signs couldn’t be clearer. The burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas, etc.) is causing rising sea levels, floods, deadly wildfires, droughts, and more—all of which put certain countries at great risk. We are already defenseless against disasters of this magnitude—so what will happen when faced with dangers caused by an additional 2 °C? According to scientists, 2018 was the hottest year on record in France. The average global surface temperature has risen by 1 °C.
The consequences of such high CO2 levels in the atmosphere are not immediate, but in the long term, the damage will be catastrophic. By 2100, sea levels could rise by 50 cm to 1 meter.
The Guardian has decided to include a daily report on atmospheric CO2 levels in its weather section. This is an unprecedented initiative that will help keep the public informed about the progress of climate change.
