Scientists opinion about climate changes

Over the past 150 years the mean temperature has increased by almost 0.8⁰ C worldwide. Europe is worming faster than the global average: the temperature has increased by about 1⁰ C. The impact of rising temperatures can now be seen in the melting ice in the Arctic and the Alps, rain and snowfall patterns and the intensity of tropical cyclones.

Many experts believe that global warming must be limited to no more than 2⁰ C above the preindustrial temperature if we are to prevent climate change from having irreversible impacts. But the scientific consensus is that the world’s average temperature could rise by as much as 6⁰ C above today’s levels in the course of this century, if no further action is taken.

There was a 70% increase in emissions of greenhouse gases worldwide between 1970 and 2004. in the energy supply sector, the increase was 145%. the growth from transport was 120% and from industry 65%. there was a 40% increase from the reduced capacity of forests to ‘trap’ carbon dioxide emissions, and as a result of changes in land use.

Combating climate changes is likely to mean significant adjustements to our lifestyles but that does not mean sacrificing our standard of living.

The costs of this action will be very limited, and in any case much less than the cost of the damage climate change will cause if we take no action.