London: We all know that climate change is wreaking havoc on our planet. But according to a new assessment, the adverse impacts of climate change are far greater, more frequent and vastly more disruptive than previously estimated.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that “minor” or “incremental” won’t not be sufficient to deal with the mega crisis.
A global body of scientists which undertakes periodic reviews of climate science, IPCC released the second part of its sixth assessment report on Monday.
The report’s first part, dealing with physical science of climate change, had warned that 1.5 degree Celsius warming was likely to be reached before 2040.
The second part of the report tried to evaluate climate change impacts, risks and vulnerabilities, and adaptation options.
“Based on increased observations and a better understanding of processes, we now know that the extent and magnitude of climate change impacts on nature are greater than previously assessed. The impacts we see today are appearing much faster, they are more disruptive and more widespread than we expected 20 years ago,” the report says.
“It is clear now that minor, marginal, reactive or incremental changes won’t be sufficient. In addition to technological and economic changes, shifts in most aspects of society are required to overcome limits to adaptation, build resilience, reduce climate risk to tolerable levels, guarantee inclusive, equitable and just development and achieve societal goals without leaving anyone behind.”
According to the study, multiple climate hazards will occur simultaneously, and multiple climatic and non-climatic risks will interact, resulting in compounding overall risk and risks cascading across sectors and regions.
