An international coalition of scientists warns that the climate crisis is entering a “critical and unprecedented new phase,” with record extremes reported in 25 of 35 key indicators. The planet’s temperature is at an all-time high, with projections for 2024 to be among the hottest years recorded. Fossil fuel interests hinder effective climate action, particularly in Azerbaijan, host of the COP29 summit, which has not committed to a net-zero target and plans significant natural gas extraction amid rising European demand.
A coalition of international scientists has declared that the Earth is facing a “critical and unprecedented new phase” of the climate crisis, as highlighted in their recent report released ahead of the upcoming COP29 summit in Azerbaijan. The report indicates alarming results, revealing that 25 out of 35 key planetary vital signs, which are essential in monitoring climate change, have reached record extremes. Notably, the planet’s average surface temperature has soared to unprecedented levels, with projections suggesting that 2024 may become one of the hottest years on record. William Ripple, a distinguished professor at Oregon State University’s College of Forestry, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “Ecological overshoot, taking more than the planet can safely give, has pushed the planet into climatic conditions more threatening than anything witnessed even by our prehistoric relatives.” He stressed the need for urgent progress during the COP29 negotiations. The report critically assesses the global response to climate change, which has been characterized as ineffective despite the issuance of six comprehensive reports by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), 28 previous COP meetings, and numerous scientific studies. The coalition attributes this stagnation to significant resistance from individuals and entities that benefit financially from the fossil fuel industry. This concern is particularly relevant for Azerbaijan, the country hosting COP29, which has not committed to a net-zero emissions target and is intensively pursuing fossil fuel extraction to satisfy the increased demand for natural gas in Europe amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Climate Action Tracker has pointed out that Azerbaijan’s strategy may result in carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to Russia’s entire annual output over the next decade, a worrisome prospect as analyzed by the NGO Global Witness.
The climate crisis remains one of the most significant challenges facing humanity, with scientists continuously tracking vital planetary indicators that reflect the health of our environment. Despite concerted global efforts in the form of international agreements and research, progress in curbing greenhouse gas emissions has been slow. The upcoming COP29 summit is set against a backdrop of urgency, given the alarming data released by climate scientists. The geopolitical dynamics exacerbated by conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war further complicate the global response to climate change. Countries like Azerbaijan, which hold significant fossil fuel reserves, may prioritize economic interests over environmental obligations, contributing to a stalled international effort.
In conclusion, the recent report from an international coalition of scientists underscores the gravity of the climate crisis as it enters a potentially dangerous phase. The stark increase in critical planetary vital signs calls for immediate and decisive action, particularly during the forthcoming COP29 summit in Azerbaijan. As nations grapple with competing economic interests and the pressing need for sustainable practices, the urgency for transformative measures to combat climate change has never been more profound. The ongoing reliance on fossil fuels, particularly in countries like Azerbaijan, poses significant challenges in international climate negotiations and efforts to mitigate global warming.
Original Source: www.semafor.com
