MAY 06, 2024

By Mr M G Kodandaram, IRS, Assistant Director (Retd), ADVOCATE and CONSULTANT

Accelerated Global Warming

GLOBAL warming has emerged as one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our era, carrying extensive repercussions for our planet and future generations. The widespread effects of this warming are already being keenly felt worldwide through significant climate shifts. As rains disrupt life in Saudi couple of weeks ago and the rains at thirsty Bangalore getting delayed, the impact of global warming on changing climate is evident. Humanity currently finds itself at a pivotal crossroads, facing an unprecedented urgency to confront the challenge of climate change. Delaying decisive action poses an existential threat to life on our planet. Therefore, it is imperative to act swiftly and effectively, as the consequences of inaction jeopardize the very survival of all species residing on the Earth.

Global warming, essentially, denotes the gradual elevation in the Earth's average temperature due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere. These gases, encompassing carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), capture heat from the sun and hinder its release into space, thereby fostering a greenhouse effect. The origins of global warming trace back to the industrial revolution and the swift expansion of manufacturing and related business activities since the late 19th century. The combustion of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas for energy generation, transportation, and industrial processes emits substantial quantities of CO2 and other GHGs. Deforestation, agricultural practices, and specific industrial activities also make notable contributions to GHG emissions. Human endeavors, notably the combustion of fossil fuels for energy and deforestation, have notably heightened the concentration of these gases, resulting in accelerated global warming.

The impacts of global warming are extensive and profound, with observable consequences such as the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, which in turn contribute to rising sea levels. These effects are already evident worldwide, notably through heightened global temperatures that result in more frequent and severe heatwaves. The enhanced melting of glaciers and ice caps exacerbates the issue, posing threats to coastal communities and ecosystems by increasing the likelihood of flooding and erosion. Furthermore, elevated temperatures can disrupt ecosystems, causing shifts in plant and animal populations and endangering biodiversity. Another critical concern is the alteration of weather patterns due to global warming, leading to heightened occurrences of intense heatwaves, storms, and droughts. Climate change, driven by global warming, is disrupting weather patterns, leading to more extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, wildfires, and heavy rainfall. These events have devastating impacts on agriculture, water resources, infrastructure, and human health, exacerbating food and water scarcity, displacement, and conflicts.

The impacts of global warming are not limited to environmental and physical aspects but also have profound socio-economic implications. Vulnerable communities, including low-income populations and indigenous peoples, are disproportionately affected by climate change due to limited resources and adaptive capacity. Economic sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and insurance are also facing challenges and uncertainties due to climate-related risks. This article aims to explore the impact of global warming and proposes certain necessary solutions to preserve Earth at its natural and sustainable level.

Global Climate 2023

Ms. Prof. Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General, of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in the foreword to the 'state of the Global climate 2023 report' observes, "The climate crisis is the defining challenge that humanity faces. The WMO report confirms that the year 2023 broke every single climate indicator. It was by far the warmest year on record. The global average temperature in 2023 was 1.45 ± 0.12 °C above the 1850-1900 average. Never have we been so close - albeit on a temporary basis - to the 1.5° C lower limit of the Paris Agreement on climate change. Concentrations of greenhouse gases continued to rise. Ocean heat content and sea level reached record observed highs, and the rate of increase is accelerating. Antarctic sea-ice extent hit record observed lows. Key glaciers suffered record losses. Heatwaves, floods, droughts, wildfires and intense tropical cyclones wreaked havoc on every continent and caused huge socioeconomic losses. There were particularly devastating consequences for vulnerable populations, who suffered disproportionate impacts. Extreme climate conditions exacerbated humanitarian crises, with millions experiencing acute food insecurity and hundreds of thousands displaced from their homes".

The key messages of the report 2023 include:

a) 2023 was the warmest year on record at 1.45 ± 0.12 °C above the pre-industrial average.

b) Concentrations of the three main GHG - carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide - reached record-high observed levels in 2022. Real-time data show that levels continued to increase in 2023.

c) Ocean heat content reached its highest level in the 65-year observational record.

d) Global mean sea level reached a record high. The rate of sea-level rise in the past 10 years (2014-2023) has more than doubled since the first decade of the satellite record (1993-2002).

e) Antarctic sea-ice extent reached an absolute record low in February. The annual maximum extent was about 1 million km2 below the previous record low maximum.

f) Preliminary data from the global set of reference glaciers for the hydrological year 2022-2023 show they experienced the largest loss of ice on record (1950- 2023), driven by extremely negative mass balance in both western North America and Europe.

g) Glaciers in Switzerland have lost about 10% of their remaining volume in the past two years.

h) Extreme weather continued to lead to severe socio-economic impacts. Extreme heat affected many parts of the world.

i) Wildfires in Canada, Europe and Hawaii (United States of America) led to loss of life, the destruction of homes and large-scale air pollution. Flooding associated with extreme rainfall from Mediterranean Cyclone Daniel affected Greece, Bulgaria, Türkiye and Libya, with particularly heavy loss of life in Libya.

j) Food security, population displacement and impacts on vulnerable populations continued to be of mounting concern in 2023, with weather and climate hazards exacerbating the situation in many parts of the world.

k) A new Global Greenhouse Gas Watch (GGGW) seeks to provide scientifically based information for climate change mitigation.

l) The transition to renewable energy must be supported by tailor-made weather and climate services.

In view of the precarious situation faced on earth by the living species including human being, addressing global warming requires urgent and concerted efforts at local, National, and international levels.

Climate Change 2023 - Synthesis Report

At the international level, the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) serves as the global authority on climate science. Established by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), primary objective of IPCC is to provide policymakers with comprehensive assessments of climate change's scientific underpinnings, its impacts, potential future risks, and strategies for both adaptation and mitigation. The IPCC produces Assessment Reports that encompass scientific, technical, and socio-economic evaluations across four parts, corresponding to its Working Groups, along with a Synthesis Report. These reports are instrumental in shaping climate-related policies at various governmental levels and form a crucial basis for discussions and negotiations during the UN Climate Conference under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The IPCC recently published the Synthesis Report (SYR) as part of the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6), providing a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of climate change. The report integrates insights from all the earlier reports, encapsulating collective knowledge on climate change, its impacts, risks, and the strategies for mitigation and adaptation. The report underlines the interconnectedness of climate dynamics, ecosystems, biodiversity, and human societies, acknowledging the intrinsic value of diverse knowledge systems. It emphasizes the intricate relationships between climate action, ecosystem health, human well-being, and sustainable development, highlighting the growing involvement of diverse stakeholders in addressing climate challenges. This report serves as a guiding compass for policymakers, scientists, and stakeholders alike in navigating the complex terrain of climate change and charting a course towards a more resilient and sustainable future.

Some of the issues highlighted in the IPCC Report 2023 are as follows:

- The Human-induced global warming has led to a temperature increase of 1.1 degrees Celsius, causing unprecedented changes in the Earth's climate. These changes, ranging from rising sea levels to extreme weather events and dwindling sea ice, are impacting every region worldwide.

- The climate impacts on both people and ecosystems are more severe and widespread than previously anticipated. Moreover, the risks associated with future climate change will escalate rapidly with even fractional increases in temperature.

- The IPCC emphasises the importance of implementing adaptation measures to build resilience against climate impacts. It highlights the effectiveness of ecosystem-based adaptation strategies, such as integrating trees into farmlands and diversifying crops, which not only help communities adapt but also benefit biodiversity, health, food security, and carbon sequestration.

- Despite adaptation efforts, as per the report, some climate impacts are already so severe that they cannot be adequately adapted to, resulting in irreversible losses and damages.

- The report stresses the necessity of peaking global GHG emissions before 2025 to align with the 1.5 degrees Celsius warming target. This requires immediate and substantial reductions in GHG emissions.

To address the climate crisis effectively, the report asks for a rapid transition away from fossil fuels as imperative. Fossil fuel combustion is identified as the primary cause of the climate crisis and must be significantly reduced. Urgent and comprehensive systemwide transformations are essential to achieve a net-zero and climate-resilient future. This includes transitioning to renewable energy sources, sustainable land use practices, and enhancing carbon removal technologies. The report underscores the critical role of carbon removal technologies in limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. These technologies are necessary to offset remaining emissions and achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by mid-century. Adequate climate finance is also crucial for both mitigation and adaptation efforts. The report calls for a dramatic increase in climate finance during this decade to support effective climate action globally. The IPCC emphasizes that failure to ensure a just transition in climate action could exacerbate existing inequities.

The IPCC's AR6 report serves as a stark reminder of the immense risks associated with inaction on climate change. Time is of the essence, with a narrow window of opportunity still open. Governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals must collaborate and take immediate, ambitious actions to secure a sustainable and equitable future for generations to come.

The Indian Response

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MOEFCC) through Press Release dated 30th March 2023, welcomed the IPCC AR6 Synthesis Report on climate change. This report, a culmination of rigorous scientific inquiry, garnered unanimous adoption, marking a significant milestone in the global fight against climate change. 'This report not only reinforces India's long-standing position on historical emissions and climate justice but also underscores the urgent need for global cooperation and action to address the challenges of climate change' the press release notes.

Central to India's stance is the steadfast assertion that development serves as the foremost defense against climate change. Urgent and concerted efforts, particularly by developed nations, are deemed essential, grounded in principles of climate justice and equity. This necessitates not only emissions reduction but also equitable access to finance and technology transfer for developing countries.

The report delivers a sobering reminder of carbon's role as the primary GHG, stressing the urgent need for its drastic reduction. Achieving net-zero emissions demands more than carbon reduction alone. Deep and rapid cuts in CO2 emissions alongside substantial reductions in other GHGs are imperative. Climate justice and equity emerge as crucial enablers, ensuring inclusive growth and development for all nations.

International cooperation emerges as the linchpin for realizing ambitious climate goals. From mitigation to adaptation and resilient development, collaboration on a global scale is indispensable. Aligning finance flows with ambition levels and funding needs is pivotal in this endeavour.

Amidst these challenges, the report echoes Prime Minister's vision for "LiFE," advocating for environmentally friendly lifestyles. Behavioural and lifestyle changes are posited as potent tools for emission reduction, promising co-benefits for societal well-being.

Protect Earth from Global Warming

As time available for preventive action is limited, the following steps needs to be undertaken on priority by all the nations to address the pressing issue of global warming.

(1) Transitioning to renewable energy sources is paramount in mitigating global warming. Fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas which are major contributors to GHG emissions, lead to global warming. By investing in and promoting renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power, we can significantly reduce our reliance on traditional fuels and curb GHG emissions.

(2) Energy efficiency also plays a crucial role in mitigating global warming. Improving the efficiency of buildings, appliances, vehicles, and industrial processes can reduce energy consumption and lower GHG emissions. Simple measures such as using energy-efficient lighting, insulating buildings, and adopting fuel-efficient transportation options can make a significant difference in reducing our carbon footprint.

(3) Protect and restore natural ecosystems. Forests, wetlands, and oceans act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere and helping regulate the Earth's climate. Deforestation, habitat destruction, and pollution not only contribute to global warming but also degrade ecosystems and threaten biodiversity. By preserving natural habitats, reforesting degraded lands, and implementing sustainable land-use practices, we can enhance carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation.

(4) Sustainable agriculture practices are essential in mitigating global warming and ensuring food security. The agriculture sector is a significant source of GHG emissions, primarily from livestock production, deforestation for agriculture, and the use of synthetic fertilizers. Transitioning towards agroecological approaches such as organic farming, agroforestry, and regenerative agriculture can reduce emissions, enhance soil health, and promote resilience to climate change impacts.

(5) Nurturing sustainable consumption and lifestyles is critical in mitigating global warming. The overconsumption of resources, waste generation, and unsustainable production patterns contribute to environmental degradation and GHG emissions. Encouraging practices such as waste reduction, recycling, conscious consumption, and the use of eco-friendly products can help reduce our ecological footprint and promote a more sustainable way of life.

(6) Education and awareness-raising also play a vital role in mitigating global warming. By informing and engaging individuals, communities, businesses, and policymakers about the causes and consequences of climate change, as well as potential solutions, we can build momentum for climate action and foster a culture of sustainability.

By taking decisive action now, we can pave the way for a healthier planet and a more resilient and sustainable future for all. In light of the critical challenges posed by global warming, it is imperative that we unite in concerted action at every level of governance and society. The precarious situation facing our planet demands nothing short of immediate and decisive measures to mitigate its impact.

At the local level, communities must mobilize to adopt sustainable practices, promote renewable energy sources, and enhance resilience to climate-related disasters. Through grassroots initiatives and community engagement, we can cultivate a culture of environmental stewardship and foster innovation in sustainability. Nationally, governments must prioritize climate action by implementing robust policies, investing in green technologies, and transitioning to low-carbon economies. By enacting ambitious emissions reduction targets and strengthening environmental regulations, nations can lead by example and inspire global cooperation.

Internationally, collaboration is paramount. Through diplomatic channels and multilateral agreements, countries must forge alliances to tackle the root causes of climate change and support vulnerable nations in adapting to its consequences. By promoting solidarity and shared responsibility, one can move towards building a sustainable future for generations to come.

Now is the time for bold leadership and unwavering commitment. Embracing an ethical stance toward safeguarding the earth stands crucial. Integrating ethical considerations into environmental legislation and strategies fosters a mindset of reverence, compassion, and accountability toward our surroundings. (refer Beyond Laws - Ethical solutions - Building a flourishing planet APRIL 09, 2024 by the author). Let us rise to the challenge of global warming with resolve and determination, knowing that our collective actions today will shape the destiny of our planet tomorrow.

Only Together, we can make a difference. Time to act now.

[The views expressed are strictly personal.]