United Nations: Climate Impacts “Overwhelming”

The impacts of climate change are severe and already underway – with higher risks of flooding, wildfires, food and water shortages, and property damage, suggests a report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change of the United Nations. The report is based on more than 12,000 peer-reviewed studies. Researchers anticipate high costs for adaptation and disaster relief. “Humans may be able to adapt to some of these changes, but only within limits,” reports Matt McGrath for BBC News. He points out that researchers behind the report debated the report’s tone, with some worrying that harsh rhetoric could discourage politicians from taking action. But other researchers are adamant: National or individual reliance on coal or resistance to conserve limited energy can be viewed as a deliberate choice to harm the climate, and Michel Jarraud, secretary-general of the World Meteorological Organization points out that “ignorance is no longer a good excuse.” US Secretary of State John Kerry suggests that “Denial of the science is malpractice" and that global response is required. – YaleGlobal