Research indicates that climate change could lead to the extinction of 7.6% of species currently, and possibly a third of all species if global temperatures rise beyond 1.5°C. Specific groups, such as amphibians and species from sensitive ecosystems, face heightened risks. Current policies could reduce extinction risks significantly, but losing even 5% of species could have catastrophic impacts on ecosystems and human wellbeing.
Global climate change poses a severe threat to biodiversity, with projections indicating that 7.6% of species currently face extinction and the situation could worsen significantly. Recent research published in the journal Science analyses historical extinction data, revealing that the proportion of extinctions linked to climate change has escalated by 4% per decade since the 1960s. The findings underscore that if global temperatures rise beyond 1.5°C, the extinction rate could rapidly increase, jeopardizing about one-third of all species on Earth.
The study highlights specific groups that are at heightened risk, including amphibians, species from fragile mountain, island, and freshwater ecosystems, and those native to regions like South America, Australia, and New Zealand. At the present temperature of 1.3°C above pre-industrial levels, 1.6% of species are anticipated to face extinction. Should temperatures reach the 1.5°C threshold outlined in the Paris Agreement, this figure could rise to 1.8%. Ultimately, the dire scenario presents a possible extinction rate of 29.7% should the temperature surge to 5.4°C.
The current emissions policies reflect a potential reduction in extinction risk from 30% to 5%. However, the loss of even 5% of species would profoundly impact ecosystems and the humans who depend on them. The study advocates for adhering to the crucial 1.5°C temperature limit to minimize extinction threats below 2%. Furthermore, it emphasizes that alongside reducing greenhouse gas emissions, it is essential to identify priority species for conservation to effectively safeguard biodiversity until the impacts of climate change can be significantly reversed.
Climate change is defined as long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily induced by human activity, particularly fossil fuel combustion. The consequences of climate change extend beyond rising temperatures; they jeopardize the delicate balance of ecosystems and the myriad species within them. The growing body of research highlights a clear connection between climate change and increased extinction risks, prompting urgent calls for policies focused on emission reductions and proactive conservation measures. Understanding the scope and potential repercussions of climate-driven extinctions is vital for formulating effective environmental strategies.
In summary, the article elucidates the stark reality of climate change’s impact on global biodiversity. Current trajectories indicate an alarming rise in extinction rates, particularly if temperatures surpass critical thresholds as set out in the Paris Agreement. As the findings emphasize, immediate action in emissions reduction and strategic conservation efforts is critical to mitigate these risks and protect our planet’s ecological heritage.
Original Source: www.energylivenews.com
