The Climate Crisis A Stark Reality Check

The Climate Crisis A Stark Reality Check

As mental health advocates, we understand the importance of being proactive in addressing the world's most pressing issues. In this blog post, we'll explore the alarming findings of a recent study that declares the 2C climate goal dead – and what it means for our collective future.

The Science is Clear 2C is No Longer a Target

A groundbreaking paper published in the journal Environment Science and Policy for Sustainable Development, led by renowned climatologist James Hansen, reveals that Earth's climate is more sensitive to rising greenhouse gas emissions than previously thought. This increased sensitivity means that the amount of greenhouse gases already pumped into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels has guaranteed increased warming.

The Consequences are Real

According to the study, temperatures will stay at or above 1.5C in the coming years, devastating coral reefs and fueling more intense storms – before rising to around 2.0C by 2045. The authors estimate that polar ice melt and freshwater injection into the North Atlantic will trigger the shutdown of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) within the next 20–30 years.

The Point of No Return

The AMOC current brings warmth to various parts of the globe and carries nutrients necessary to sustain ocean life. Its end, as described in the paper, will lock in major problems including sea level rise of several meters – thus, we describe AMOC shutdown as the 'point of no return.'

What Does This Mean for Our Future?

The world's nations agreed during the landmark Paris climate accord of 2015 to try to hold end-of-century warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels. However, with the 1.5C target already breached over the past two years, according to data from the EU's climate monitoring system Copernicus, it's clear that we're facing a new reality.

A Call to Action

As mental health advocates, it is our responsibility to acknowledge the grim truth of the climate crisis and work towards creating a more sustainable future. To achieve this, we must

• Pursue innovative solutions to address the root causes of climate change
• Adopt a proactive approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability
• Advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of our planet

Conclusion

The findings of this study are undeniably grim, but we must confront the reality of the climate crisis head-on. By acknowledging the problem and working together towards a solution, we can create a better future for ourselves and future generations.

Take Action Today!

Join us in advocating for sustainable practices and policy changes that prioritize the well-being of our planet. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a brighter future for all.

Keywords climate crisis, mental health advocates, sustainability, greenhouse gas emissions, Paris climate accord

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.