Scientists Predict 7.2 Degree Global Temperature Jump by 2060
by JEFF FOSTER, Contributing Writer, Stand-up Comedian and Editor of TheLean.org
A few weeks before December’s United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen (COP15), the United Kingdom Met Office released a new study that predicted that the average global temperature will increase by 4 degrees Celsius (7.2 degrees Fahrenheit) as early as 2060 if current emissions trends continue – this is almost half-a-century sooner than previously estimated.
The sense of urgency disseminated by the study is rooted in the fact that many of the planet’s current human inhabitants could experience major climate change within their lifetimes – we used to think we were just leaving it to our descendants.
Developing research in this area is more crucial than ever as the parties to 1992’s Earth Summit meet in Denmark to, environmentalists hope, figure out a way to mitigate climate change.
Among the effects of the rapidly forthcoming rise in temperature predicted by scientists: drought, flooding, malnutrition, forest loss, and faster spread of contagious diseases. Poorer countries, especially those nearest the equator, will be hit hardest by these changes. Get the facts at the COP15 website.
To control the damage, it will be necessary for all of us to, at the very least, make changes in our own living habits. Find out how you can preach about global warming without being a hypocrite.
If you’re truly committed to fighting climate change and want to get involved through activism, Greenpeace and the Sierra Club have been fighting the fight since 1971 and 1892, respectively.
Photo by mugley, flickr.
- Posted by Causecast
Related causes: Environment
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Change your Life and reduce emissions NOW, it is the only thing that may save the Planet. Climate change is coocuring everywhere, and there is plenty of proof half of it is man-influenced. You can't change world politics, but you can change awareness among friends, family and others you meet. Start today, not tomorrow.
My example: I only drive bicycle in my small City, no need for engines!