Global warming has surpassed critical thresholds earlier than anticipated, leading to a near irreversible decline in the world’s coral reefs, signaling the first “tipping point” in the collapse of climate-driven ecosystems, according to a report released by 160 researchers globally. The report, known as the Global Tipping Points report, synthesizes innovative scientific findings to forecast points of no return. This warning comes just before the COP30 climate summit, scheduled near the Amazon rainforest in Brazil.
The report highlights the risk of the Amazon rainforest system collapsing once the average global temperature exceeds 1.5 degrees Celsius due to deforestation rates, lowering the previously estimated threshold for the Amazon. Another concern with rising temperatures is the potential disruption of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a major ocean current crucial for maintaining mild winters in northern Europe.
Environmental scientist Tim Lenton from the University of Exeter, the lead author of the report, emphasized the rapid changes occurring in certain aspects of the climate and biosphere. Although the situation seems dire, Lenton noted positive developments in gradually phasing out fossil fuels, with renewables surpassing coal in electricity generation for the first time this year, as reported by the non-profit think-tank Ember.
Lenton expressed optimism, stating, “Nobody wants to feel overwhelmed and powerless. We still have the ability to make a difference.” The report urges countries at the upcoming COP30 event in November to collaborate in reducing carbon emissions that contribute to climate change.
Scientists have observed surprising rapid changes in nature, with global temperatures already exceeding 1.3-1.4 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial average. The past two years have been recorded as the warmest on record, leading to marine heat waves that severely impacted 84% of the world’s reefs, causing bleaching and mortality. Coral reefs support a significant portion of marine life globally.
To facilitate coral recovery, urgent and substantial climate action is necessary to lower temperatures to just 1 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels, as suggested by the scientists. Pep Canadell, a senior scientist at Australia’s CSIRO Climate Science Centre, emphasized the escalating negative impacts of climate change evident each year.
The new findings underscore the increasing severity and scale of the adverse effects of climate change, emphasizing the urgency for collective action to mitigate its impacts.
