What is the 1.5C climate threshold and why is it crucial for small islands?

The 1.5C threshold is a critical temperature limit. Exceeding it significantly increases risks for small islands, including severe sea level rise and potential existential threats.

How does climate change impact the Bahamas according to Adelle Thomas?

Adelle Thomas highlights the destruction of coral reefs, increased hurricane intensity like Dorian, coastal erosion, and flooding in the Bahamas due to climate change.

Why was the role of science contentious at the latest climate talks?

Some countries questioned the IPCC's standing and attempted to undermine climate science, which is seen as an effort to reduce pressure for emission cuts.

Home / Environment / 1.5C Climate Threshold: A Matter of Survival for Islands

1.5C Climate Threshold: A Matter of Survival for Islands

12 Dec

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Summary

Small islands face existential threats beyond 1.5C due to sea level rise.
Coral reefs vital for Bahamas protection could be 99% lost at 2C warming.
Countries questioned IPCC's role, undermining climate science at recent talks.

1.5C Climate Threshold: A Matter of Survival for Islands

The 1.5C climate threshold is a critical point for small island nations, with risks escalating sharply if surpassed. Beyond this limit, rising sea levels could eventually submerge entire islands, threatening their very existence. For example, the Bahamas relies heavily on coral reefs that are projected to decline by 90% at 1.5C and 99% at 2C, severely impacting coastal protection and increasing storm vulnerability.

Recent climate negotiations have been marked by contention, with some nations challenging the authority of the IPCC and attempting to discredit climate science. This effort to undermine scientific consensus often serves to weaken pressure for emission reductions. Furthermore, political decisions, such as blocking federal agencies from contributing to climate assessments, create significant gaps in understanding the impacts and necessary responses.