Scientists have warned that the world is still likely to exceed the Paris Agreement’s critical warming target of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels despite rapid growth in renewable energy and improvements in climate policies. A new international climate assessment found that while the most catastrophic warming projections are now considered less likely, current global efforts remain insufficient to prevent dangerous climate change.
Researchers say expanding use of solar, wind, and other clean energy technologies has helped slow the pace of future emissions growth. However, greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels, deforestation, industry, and transportation continue to remain at historically high levels. Scientists warn that without faster and deeper emissions cuts, average global temperatures could rise well beyond the Paris target during this century.
Exceeding the 1.5°C threshold could intensify extreme weather events including heatwaves, floods, droughts, wildfires, and stronger storms. Experts also warn of accelerating glacier melt, sea-level rise, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, and growing health risks for vulnerable populations worldwide.
Climate scientists stress that immediate action is still possible to limit the worst impacts. They are urging governments to rapidly phase out fossil fuels, strengthen renewable energy systems, protect forests, and invest in climate adaptation measures to improve global resilience.
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