The recent study published in Nature Communications brings alarming facts to light about the rapidly escalating issue of climate change. It suggests that even adhering to the UN-mandated Paris Agreement target of a 2-degree Celsius global temperature rise might be inadequate in preventing drastic sea-level rise within this century.
The Impact of Rising Temperatures
The study warns that irreversible losses of the west Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets could occur if global temperatures climb above 1.8°C. This would lead to an accelerated sea level rise. Using robotic vehicles, mooring data, and sensors, scientists studied the Thwaites Glacier’s grounding line and found that warm water was infiltrating its delicate spots, exacerbating the melting caused by temperature increases.
According to the study, achieving net-zero carbon emissions before 2060 is crucial to avert such disaster. Predictions indicate that by 2150, global sea levels will rise approximately 1.4, 0.5, and 0.2 meters under high, mid, and low-emission scenarios, correspondingly.
A Glimpse of Climate Change Induced Catastrophes
As Earth’s temperature rises, ice caps, and glaciers melt faster. This water flows into the ocean, contributing to sea levels rise. This temperature rise is primarily due to increased greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, especially carbon dioxide from human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation.
In 2021, concentrations of the three main greenhouse gases—carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide—were at record highs. The methane emission was particularly alarming, soaring at the highest ever rate, amplifying global warming 25 times more than carbon dioxide.
The global average temperature in 2022 was around 1.15°C above the average during 1850-1900. The La Niña phenomenon has dominated since late 2020. The global sea level rose by approximately 3.4 ± 0.3 mm per year over the last three decades.
In 2022, about 55% of the ocean surface experienced at least one marine heatwave. A surge in extreme weather events has also been reported, with East Africa recording below-average rainfall for four consecutive seasons—the longest in 40 years. Devastating floods have followed severe heatwaves in India and Pakistan in 2022.
Climate Change Mitigation Measures
India launched its National Action Plan to Combat Climate Change (NAPCC) to address climate change threats. The plan consists of eight sub-missions, including the National Solar Mission and National Water Mission. India’s Cooling Action Plan aims to reduce cooling demand, which will, in turn, lower emissions and aid global warming combat.
On a global scale, the Paris Agreement aims to contain global temperature rise well below 2°C from pre-industrial times. The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) include Goal 13, dedicated solely to climate change mitigation. The Glasgow Pact, adopted by 197 parties during the COP26 negotiations, emphasizes immediate action in the current decade for achieving the 1.5-degree target.
The Sharm-El-Sheikh Adaptation Agenda, outlined at COP 27, includes 30 Adaptation Outcomes targeted at enhancing resilience for four billion people living in the most climate-vulnerable communities by 2030.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Perspective
As future civil servants, it is essential to have a deep understanding of the topic of climate change. Some previous years’ prelims questions have included inquiries about the ‘Green India Mission’ and the ‘Global Climate Change Alliance.’ Mains examination questions asked for an analysis of the outcomes of COP26 and India’s commitments, as well as a comprehensive understanding of how climate change affects India, especially its Himalayan and coastal states.
The grave threat posed by climate change necessitates that we understand its implications and work collectively towards mitigating its impact. It is imperative for future policy makers to be well-informed and prepared to address this global concern effectively.