For the second consecutive year, the global temperature has reached new highs, with 2024 surpassing 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, according to European climate scientists.
Melina Walling reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- The European climate agency Copernicus reports that 2024’s temperatures have exceeded 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels for the first time, driven by greenhouse gases and factors like El Niño.
- U.N. and climate experts warn that adaptation funding remains insufficient, with spending far below the $187 billion minimum needed annually to counter worsening heat, droughts and floods.
- The milestone arrives as global leaders prepare for the COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, where financing for clean energy and adaptation efforts will take center stage.
Key quote:
“Earth’s ablaze. Humanity’s torching the planet and paying the price.”
— Antonio Guterres, U.N. Secretary-General
Why this matters:
Earth’s persistent warming threatens ecosystems and human health, with climate-induced disasters and rising costs putting pressure on vulnerable communities. Record-breaking temperatures reinforce the urgency for governments to enhance adaptation and mitigation efforts at a global scale.
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