A report from leading researchers from around the world presents important findings in climatology for 2020. They can encourage collective action to combat the climate crisis and contribute to a successful outcome of this year’s UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).
The report was submitted to Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Patricia Espinosa, who highlighted the importance of a successful UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow.
“COP26 is more than just a climate change agenda. This is an opportunity for the international community to provide tangible evidence of the value of international cooperation”, she said.
Here are just a few takeaways from climatology: a better understanding of the Earth’s sensitivity to carbon dioxide increases support for ambitious emission reductions under the Paris Agreement; rainforests may have peaked in carbon sequestration; COVID-19 and climate change demonstrate the need for a new social contract; electrification in cities is critical to the transition to sustainable development.
“One understanding should emerge from all these scientific discoveries: if we want to be able to stabilize the climate for our own safety, the last chance to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is now”, said Johan Rokström, a Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research.
“The increasing wildfires, hurricanes and even an ongoing pandemic are all signals that our relationship with nature is deteriorating”, said Wendy Broadgate, a Director of the Future Earth Global Center.
It should be noted that 2021 will be crucial for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.