The latest State of the Global Climate report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reveals that the last eight years were the eight warmest on record, and that sea level rise and ocean warming hit new highs in 2023.
The report also highlights the impacts of climate change on human health, food security, water resources, biodiversity and ecosystems. It warns that extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, floods, storms and wildfires have caused significant losses of lives and livelihoods, as well as damage to infrastructure and natural capital.
According to the report, climate change is also driving away marine fish towards the poles, affecting the food chain and the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on fisheries. Moreover, climate change is increasing the risk of zoonotic diseases such as COVID-19, which can jump from animals to humans and cause pandemics.
The report urges governments, businesses and individuals to take urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the inevitable effects of climate change. It calls for more investment in green technologies, renewable energy sources, nature-based solutions and disaster risk reduction strategies. It also stresses the need for international cooperation and solidarity to support the most vulnerable countries and communities.
