Climate Change: UN Report Shows Record High Levels of Emissions

World Heading Towards 'Catastrophic' Temperature Rise

Urgent Action Needed to Avert Climate Disaster

A new report from the United Nations has revealed that global greenhouse gas emissions reached their highest levels ever recorded in 2021, putting the world on a path towards a "catastrophic" temperature rise

The report, released by the UN Environment Program (UNEP), shows that greenhouse gas emissions have increased by 14% since 2010, and are now at their highest level in human history.

The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and gas, is the primary driver of greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation and agriculture also contribute to emissions.

The report warns that the world is heading towards a temperature rise of 2.7 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by the end of the century, which would have devastating consequences for the planet.

"This report is a clear and urgent warning that we are on the brink of climate catastrophe," said UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

"We need to act now to reduce emissions and transition to a clean energy future. The longer we wait, the more difficult and costly it will be to avoid the worst impacts of climate change."

The report calls for urgent action to reduce emissions, including: • Investing in renewable energy and energy efficiency • Phasing out coal and other fossil fuels • Protecting forests • Promoting sustainable agriculture "We have the knowledge and the technology to solve the climate crisis," said UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen.

"But we need to act now. The time for excuses is over. We need to work together to build a clean and sustainable future for our planet and for generations to come."

The report's findings are consistent with other recent assessments of climate change, including a report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released in August 2021.

The IPCC report warned that the world is on track to exceed the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

The impacts of climate change are already being felt around the world, in the form of more frequent and intense heat waves, droughts, floods and storms.

These impacts are expected to become even more severe in the future, and could lead to widespread displacement, food shortages and conflict.

"The climate crisis is the defining challenge of our time," said Guterres.

"We must act now to protect our planet and our future."