920. The Perilous State of the Cryosphere as Global Warming Escalates

During COP28, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) presented a preliminary forecast showing a worrisome rise in global average temperatures of about 1.4°C above pre-industrial levels by the end of October 2023 - a new record for an annual average.

The report highlighted the alarming acceleration of sea level rise, which it attributed to the rapid warming of the oceans and the melting of glaciers. It highlighted that sea levels will rise twice as fast from 2013 to 2023 compared to the previous decade from 1993 to 2003.

The STATE OF THE CRYOSPHERE REPORT 2023 sounded a dire warning, warning that a 2°C increase in global temperatures could cause irreversible damage to the world's ice sheets, glaciers and permafrost, with catastrophic consequences for humanity, society and the environment. Stressing the urgency of immediate action, the researchers underscored the need to accelerate the implementation of systemic changes in climate policy. Time is of the essence, and delaying effective action could exacerbate the risks associated with the cryosphere under the looming threat of global warming.

Contributor: IIYAMA Miyuki (Information Program)