Subscribe now

Columnist Environment

The worst-case climate scenarios are no longer plausible today

Ten years ago, we feared that catastrophic global warming of between 4°C and 5°C by by 2100 was a real risk. Today, that is no longer credible, says Graham Lawton

By Graham Lawton

11 January 2023

"Climate Action is so hot right now" text written on a sign at student climate change protest in Melbourne Australia. Group of protesters marching down street against global warming. Focus on sign.; Shutterstock ID 1992990047; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Christie Cooper/Shutterstock

THE annual ritual of working out where the previous 12 months ranks on the global “hottest-year-on-record” chart is well under way. It was another scorcher, according to a preliminary report by the World Meteorological Organization – probably in fifth or sixth, in which case the past eight years will be the warmest eight on record.

Quelle surprise. As long as we keep on dumping greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, the climate will continue to heat up.

This is obviously alarming news, but, in truth, things aren’t as bad as they appear. Don’t worry, I haven’t fallen down a climate denial …

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 14th June 2023.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account