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Climate change progress in 2024 is a mixed bag. As we reach the midpoint of 2024, it’s essential to assess the progress made in addressing the climate crisis.
While there have been notable advancements, the pace of change remains slow, and the window for limiting global warming to 1.5°C is rapidly closing.
Sadly, the climate change progress in 2024 isn’t solid . The World Health Organization has pronounced the global temperature climb and over the top demonstration of consuming petroleum products as a significant issue . The typical global temperature for the five-year time frame somewhere in the range of 2022 and 2026 is projected to be higher than the past five-year time frame somewhere in the range of 2017 and 2021 .
There are, be that as it may, a few settlements, meetings, and drives occurring in 2024 to gauge, screen, and relieve climate change . The Meeting of Gatherings, the UNFCCC, and the Paris Climate Agreement are a couple of models .
Some other things you can do to support the fight against climate change in 2024 include :
- Using greener transportation methods
- Eating plant-based diets
- Avoiding fast fashion or opting for sustainable clothing garments instead
- Taking shorter showers
- Turning off devices when not in use
- Using more energy-efficient devices
Renewable Energy: A Bright Spot
Renewable energy capacity has continued to grow, with solar energy increasing by 25% and wind energy by 20% compared to 2023. Hydro energy capacity has also seen a modest 5% increase. This shift towards cleaner energy sources is a positive trend, but it must accelerate to meet global climate goals.
Energy Efficiency: A Work in Progress
Global energy intensity has decreased by 2.5%, indicating improved energy efficiency. However, this progress is offset by increased energy consumption in emerging economies. Energy-efficient technologies, such as LED lighting and smart grids, have seen increased adoption, but more needs to be done to address energy waste.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Concern
CO2 emissions have risen by 1.5%, methane emissions by 2.2%, and nitrous oxide emissions by 1.8% compared to 2023. This increase is alarming, as it indicates a continued reliance on fossil fuels and inadequate emission reduction efforts.
Climate Change Impacts: A Harsh Reality
Sea-level rise has accelerated, with a 10% increase from 2023. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods, have risen by 15%. Arctic ice coverage has declined by 75% since 1980, a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of climate change.
Climate Change Policy and Action: A Mixed Bag
While 175 countries have ratified the Paris Climate Agreement, the pace of implementation remains slow. Global climate finance has reached $100 billion, a 20% increase from 2023, but still short of the $1 trillion needed annually. Carbon pricing mechanisms now cover 22% of global emissions, a 15% increase from 2023.
Challenges and Opportunities
The continued subsidization of fossil fuels and investments in carbon-intensive infrastructure hinder progress. However, the rapid growth of renewable energy and energy efficiency presents opportunities for accelerated transition. Climate change adaptation and resilience efforts require increased focus and funding to protect vulnerable communities.
Here are some reports and resources for more details:
Reports:
1. IPCC Fifth Assessment Report (2013)
2. IPCC Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C (2018)
3. NOAA Global Climate Report (2022)
4. UNFCCC Climate Change and Land Report (2019)
Books:
1. “The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming” by David Wallace-Wells (2019)
2. “Climate Change: A Very Short Introduction” by Mark Maslin (2014)
3. “The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History” by Elizabeth Kolbert (2014)
4. “This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. the Climate” by Naomi Klein (2014)
Documentaries:
1. “An Inconvenient Truth” (2006)
2. “The 11th Hour” (2007)
3. “Chasing Coral” (2017)
4. “Before the Flood” (2016)
Conclusion
While there have been positive developments in renewable energy and energy efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, and climate change impacts are intensifying. To avoid the most catastrophic consequences of climate change, we must accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and prioritize climate resilience and adaptation efforts. The window for action is rapidly closing – we must act now.
