Our planet is facing numerous challenges due to global warming, and the time to act is now. Recent reports by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicate that temperatures are projected to rise by 1.5°C by 2050, while sea levels are expected to rise up to 9.7m, drastically altering the landscapes of coastal areas and threatening numerous communities around the world. Given such worrying data, one might ask, is it too late to fix global warming?
On the one hand, some experts contend that if we reduce harmful emissions and invest money into renewable energies now, then we still have a good chance to address global warming and its effects on the environment and to save ourselves from catastrophic events in the future. However, certain points should be taken into consideration. Firstly, even if the world was able to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 50%, this would not be sufficient to contain global warming. According to professor John Schellnhuber, one of the world’s leading climate scientists, the world would need to reduce emissions by at least 70% in order to ensure that our planet does not exceed the 1.5°C target. Secondly, not only would this require a monumental effort in terms of monetary spending and reduced consumption, but it would also need a global collaboration and effort in order to be successful, something which could be difficult to achieve.
On the other hand, some argue that global warming is an imminent threat and at this advanced stage, it is too late to turn around its effects and save the planet from the catastrophes that it will bring. For instance, even if the earth were to achieve the 1.5°C degree target, this would still bring extreme weather, an increase in the number of floods, wildfires, and droughts, and more severe hurricanes and cyclones. These events will cause a great deal of damage to ecosystems, communities, and livelihoods, both in terms of life and with economic damage. In addition, recent research suggests that glacier melting has already passed the point of no return, and there is no way to stop this process. This implies that sea levels will inexorably rise, even if temperatures are successfully kept at 1.5°C.
Overall, it is clear that there is no easy answer to the question of whether it is too late to fix global warming. The truth is that global warming requires urgent action from all countries and partners, not only from national governments, but from each and every one of us. If a collaborative effort is made to invest significantly in renewable energy sources and reduce GHG emissions, then the planet can be saved from drastic changes, such as extreme weather events and a rise in sea levels. So, each of us must become a green consumer, make sustainable choices, and adopt eco-friendly lifestyles. Acting now is the only way to secure our planet’s future.
