Greta Thunberg has called on humanity to take “brave” action to avoid a catastrophic climate change crisis, in the wake of a damning new report.
A report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) says that humanity’s damaging impact on the climate is now a “statement of fact”.
The worrying review from UN scientists also warns that a key temperature limit could be broken in just a decade if warming gas emissions continue at their current rate.
Scientists also warn that a rise in sea levels approaching 2m by the end of this century “cannot be ruled out”.
It doesn't tell us what to do. It is up to us to be brave and take decisions based on the scientific evidence provided in these reports. We can still avoid the worst consequences, but not if we continue like today, and not without treating the crisis like a crisis. 2/2
— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) August 9, 2021
Reacting on Twitter, environmental activist Thunberg wrote: “The new IPCC report contains no real surprises. It confirms what we already know from thousands previous studies and reports – that we are in an emergency. It’s a solid (but cautious) summary of the current best available science.”
“It doesn’t tell us what to do. It is up to us to be brave and take decisions based on the scientific evidence provided in these reports. We can still avoid the worst consequences, but not if we continue like today, and not without treating the crisis like a crisis,” she said.
Among the report’s key findings is the revelation that the recent rate of sea level rises has nearly tripled compared with 1901-1971.
It is also “virtually certain” that heatwaves have become more frequent and intense since the 1950s, while colder events have become less frequent and severe.
The IPCC’s document said “it is unequivocal that human influence has warmed the atmosphere, oceans and land”.
On a more positive note, scientists say they are more hopeful that if we can cut global emissions in half by 2030 and reach net zero by the middle of the century, we can possibly halt and reverse the rise in temperatures.
Responding to the latest report, campaign group Music Declares Emergency said: “It is now far beyond doubt that we need immediate, far reaching, global action to ensure we limit temperature rise to within 1.5 degrees.
“Too many promises have been made that have not been fulfilled, too many statements made without the commensurate and necessary action. This really is the last chance saloon.
“Music Declares Emergency repeats its call for net zero by 2030 and for governments and the media to tell the truth about the climate energy. We urge our declarers, the music industry, artists, and fans to join us in this crucial year to make our collective voice impossible to ignore.”
Back in April a selection of musicians also spoke out in support of Music Declares Emergency’s campaign for government action on climate change.