Global temperatures set to break records in next 5 years: WMO report

New Delhi: In a recent update by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), it is projected that global temperatures will reach record levels in the next five years.

This surge is primarily attributed to the accumulation of heat-trapping greenhouse gases and the emergence of an El Niño weather pattern. The WMO report indicates a 66 percent likelihood that the average annual global temperature from 2023 to 2027 will exceed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for at least one year.

Additionally, there is a 98 percent probability that at least one of the next five years, as well as the entire five-year period, will be the warmest ever recorded.

Meanwhile in a separate meeting, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), António Guterres, addressed the urgency of the climate crisis during the Austrian World Summit in Vienna.

He emphasized that while the tools necessary to combat climate change are available, time is of the essence. Guterres urged swift and decisive action to accelerate efforts in combating climate change.

He acknowledged the overwhelming nature of the climate crisis and highlighted the disproportionate impact it has on marginalized communities, as global heating is projected to reach 2.8°C by the end of the century.

Guterres emphasized the possibility of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C, citing the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's findings, but stressed the need for a substantial increase in climate action worldwide.

To achieve the goal of limiting temperature rise, Guterres called upon all governments to expedite their net-zero commitments, considering their respective capabilities and responsibilities.

Developed countries were urged to aim for net-zero emissions as close to 2040 as possible while emerging economies should strive for a similar target as close to 2050 as possible.

Guterres highlighted the importance of immediate emissions reductions, transparency, and accountability in achieving net-zero emissions, cautioning against relying on carbon credits, shadow markets, or questionable accounting practices.

The Acceleration Agenda put forth by the UN Secretary-General also emphasized the necessity of climate justice. This entails restructuring the priorities and business models of multilateral development banks to facilitate the flow of trillions of dollars in private finance toward the green economy.

Additionally, developed countries were urged to fulfil their financial commitments to support developing nations. Guterres emphasized the need to operationalize the loss and damage fund and replenish the Green Climate Fund to effectively address the consequences of climate change.