What a difference one degree makes
Average global warming of 2°C will result in dangerous and irreversible effects: that’s the message coming in loud and clear from the scientific community, and the “danger zone” so frequently referred to in global warming discussions. And although our window of opportunity for staying below that critical threshold is closing fast, we can still make it in time – just.
But what happens if we’re too slow to react and that window slams shut on our fingers? What are the implications if our world warms by more than 2°C? The potential effects of “slipping” just that one extra degree, from a 2°C to a 3°C increase in global temperatures, are – claims the WWF – catastrophic.
Here’s a look at what’s in store for the human race and this humble rock we call home if we don’t get our act together in time:
HUMAN HEALTH:
2°:
- 90-200 million more people at risk of malaria and other vector-and water-borne diseases
- Increased rates of diarrheal disease and malnutrition in low-income countries
3°:
- 300+ million more people at risk of malaria globally
- 5-6 billion more people at risk of dengue
- Human health is threatened due to water stress and flooding, especially in Africa and south Asia
AGRICULTURE:
2°:
- Increased hunger in places such as sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia due to a decline in agricultural production
- Increased disparities and increased conflicts due to the effects of water scarcity and less predictable harvests
3°:
- 50-120 million more people at risk of hunger, agriculture will be negatively impacted, and food prices will increase globally
WATER:
2°:
- 662 million to 3 billion more people at risk of water shortage
- Global water shortages and increased soil moisture stress, resulting in greater intensification of land use and desertification
3°:
- 3.1 to 3.5 billion more people at risk of water shortages, with potential drought-related migration leading to socioeconomic and political instability
- High risk of drought in southern Europe, West Africa, Central America, the Middle East, and parts of North America, Amazonia and China
