Climate Crisis: Record Heat, Health Risks, and Fossil Fuel Dependence Demand Urgent Action at COP29
October 30, 2024Despite these alarming findings, investments in fossil fuels remain strong, with over a third of energy spending in 2023 directed towards new fossil fuel projects, while 84% of governments continue to subsidize fossil fuel production.
Researchers advocate for urgent and ambitious measures to adapt to and mitigate climate change, highlighting the need for rapid reductions in CO2 emissions and improved adaptation strategies.
A recent report by 122 global health experts highlights that climate change has led to unprecedented levels of heat-related deaths, food insecurity, and the spread of infectious diseases.
The year 2023 has been recorded as the hottest year to date, resulting in an average of 50 additional days of dangerously hot weather per person, primarily attributed to emissions from fossil fuels.
As the upcoming COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan approaches, scheduled for November 11 to 22, countries are expected to adopt new climate finance goals and governance structures for the Loss and Damage fund.
The report underscores the urgent need for financial support to bolster health systems and protect vulnerable communities from the impacts of climate change.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for immediate action to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate inaction, emphasizing that record emissions pose significant threats to public health.
Experts stress the necessity of prioritizing health in climate policies to ensure equitable outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Despite the grim outlook, there are signs of progress, such as a nearly 7% decrease in deaths from fossil fuel-related air pollution from 2016 to 2021, alongside a doubling of clean renewable energy use for electricity generation.
The report warns that current policies could lead to a global temperature rise of 2.7 degrees Celsius by 2100, underscoring the critical need for effective climate action.
Current investments are often misdirected towards harmful practices rather than solutions that enhance health and climate resilience, according to experts.
Summary based on 36 sources
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Sources
World Health Organization • Oct 30, 2024
The Lancet urges divestment from fossil fuels to save livesThe Guardian • Oct 30, 2024
Record levels of heat-related deaths in 2023 due to climate crisis, report findsAl Jazeera • Oct 30, 2024
Heat-related deaths and diseases rising due to climate change, experts warnPhys.org • Oct 30, 2024
Experts call for trillions of dollars spent on fossil fuels to be redirected