Record temperatures ahead: UN report is a warning Australia cannot ignore
WWF-Australia
A new UN climate outlook predicting record global temperatures in the next five years is a warning Australia cannot ignore, said WWF‑Australia.
The report from the UN’s weather agency, the World Meteorological Organization, found global average temperatures are likely to continue at or near record levels over the next five years.
It is likely (86% chance) that at least one year between 2026 and 2030 will surpass 2024 as the warmest year on record, according to the report released today.
It is also very likely (91% chance) the global mean near-surface temperature will temporarily exceed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for at least one year between 2026 and 2030.
WWF-Australia’s Head of Regenerative Climate, Nat Burke said the report highlights the risk and responsibility facing Australia.
“This report shows the dangers of climate change are arriving even faster than expected,” he said.
“Australia and neighbouring countries across the Pacific and Asia sit right in the heart of a highly climate‑sensitive region.
“Small shifts in the global climate system, including shifts between El Niño and La Niña conditions, can translate quickly into drought, heatwaves, bushfires, coral bleaching and extreme rainfall here.
“But Australia also has a bigger opportunity to act than most countries.
“We are one of the world’s largest exporters of fossil fuel emissions. By accelerating the shift to renewable energy and phasing out fossil fuels, we can help limit how much worse this gets, not just for Australia but our whole region.
“We also know the power of nature-based solutions to climate change. Investing in nature is one of the fastest, most effective ways to build resilience to the impacts we can’t avoid.
“Mangroves can protect coastlines from storm surge, reefs support food security and livelihoods, and urban green space can bring down temperatures in our cities.
“This report isn’t just a warning. It’s a reminder that the choices Australia makes now will shape how exposed we are in the years ahead.”
Contact details:
Paul Fahy, 0455 528 161, [email protected]