Climate Change Facts and Figures

Climate change isn’t a threat looming in the distant future – it’s happening right now. And with only a decade left to prevent irreversible damage, it’s safe to say we’re in a race against time. Rising global temperatures and sea levels are sounding the alarm bells but it’s not all doom and gloom. We hold the power to mitigate some of these impacts by understanding climate change science and adopting more sustainable practices. Despite the challenge, every small action towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy counts. So, let’s delve into the facts about climate change and learn how we can make a difference.

Did you know?

The world has emitted around 2.3 trillion tonnes of carbon dioxide since the Industrial Revolution (2041 Foundation).

The unmistakable evidence

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the rate of global warming we’re witnessing is unprecedented in the last 10,000 years (IPCC, Special Report 2018). The primary driver of this phenomenon is human activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Here is some compelling evidence for climate change:

Shrinking carbon budget

The carbon budget represents the maximum amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions allowed to keep global warming within a certain target, such as the 1.5°C goal set in the Paris Agreement. Current emission rates suggest we’re rapidly depleting this budget, which in turn is intensifying climate change.

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), in order to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, the remaining carbon budget is estimated to be around 420 gigatons of carbon dioxide (CO2) (IPCC Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 °C).

1. The world has already used up about two-thirds of its remaining carbon budget to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. (IPCC, Sixth Assessment Report 2021)

2. At current rates of emissions, the world will exhaust its remaining carbon budget for 1.5°C within the next decade. (Climate Action Tracker, 2023)

3. To limit global warming to 1.5°C, the world needs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and reach net zero emissions by 2050. (IPCC, 2021)

Rising global temperatures

The global average temperature has risen dramatically in recent years and the past decade has been the warmest in over 125,000 years (IPCC, Climate Change 2021, The Physical Science Basis, Summary for Policymakers). This warming trend is primarily due to increased atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases.

According to NASA, the Earth’s average surface temperature has risen by about 1°C since the late 19th century (NASA, Evidence | Facts – Climate Change: Vital Signs of the Planet). Moreover, the 20 warmest years on record have occurred since 1981 and the 10 warmest years have all occurred since 2005. This trend of rising global temperatures is primarily down to increased atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide.

1. The Arctic is warming twice as fast as the rest of the planet. (Source: IPCC, Climate Change 2021)

2. The past eight years have been the warmest on record. (Source: World Meteorological Organization 2023)

3. If greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise at current rates, global warming could reach 4.4°C by the end of the century. (Source: IPCC, Climate Change 2021)

Rising sea levels

As a result of melting polar ice caps and glaciers, sea levels are rising at an alarming rate. This presents a significant threat to coastal communities and low-lying islands, which are at risk of flooding and even submersion.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), sea levels have been rising at an average rate of 3.3 millimetres per year since 1993. This might not sound like a lot, but it adds up over time. What’s more, the global sea level rose by 0.27 centimetres just from 2021 to 2022, according to a NASA analysis of satellite data (NASA, 2023). That’s the equivalent of adding water from a million Olympic-size swimming pools to the ocean every day for a year and is part of a decades-long trend of rising seas primarily due to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers.

1. Global sea levels have risen by about 21 centimetres since 1900. (European Environment Agency, 2022)

2. Sea level rise is accelerating and is likely to rise at least 1 meter by the end of the century. (IPCC, Climate Change 2021)

3. Sea level rise could displace up to 216 million people globally by 2050. (Groundswell Report, 2021)

Melting arctic ice

Arctic sea ice is melting at a rapidly increasing rate, with recent observations showing the smallest extent of late summer ice in over a millennium. This reduction in sea ice is part of a warming feedback cycle, as the ocean absorbs more sunlight than the reflective ice because of its dark colour. This, in turn, further increases the warming process.

Shockingly, 95% of the oldest and thickest ice in the Arctic has already gone (WWF, 2023), highlighting the huge amounts of sea ice that have already been lost. Driven largely by the effects of global warming, this staggering reduction underscores the urgent need for comprehensive climate action to preserve the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem. Don’t forget that arctic soils are believed to contain around 50% of the world’s global soil carbon.

1. The Arctic sea ice cover is now about 35% less than the 1981-2010 average (Copernicus)

2. Summer Arctic sea ice is shrinking by 12.2% per decade due to warmer temperatures (NASA, 2023).

3. The Arctic sea ice cover is projected to almost completely disappear during the summer months by the end of the century (IPCC, Climate Change 2021).

Causes of climate change

Many of the things we do every day, like producing energy or chopping down trees, have a big impact on climate change. So, it’s vital to properly understand the causes before we can create effective solutions. Here are the 3 main causes of climate change:

Greenhouse gas emissions

Burning fossil fuels for energy and transportation releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, causing the Earth’s temperature to rise – an effect more commonly known as the greenhouse effect.

• In 2022, humans were responsible for the release of 37.49 billion metric tons of CO2 into the atmosphere in 2022 (Statista).

• The richest 10% of the world’s population emit about 50% of all greenhouse gas emissions (Oxfam).

Deforestation

Trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, reducing greenhouse gas levels. When forests are cut down for agriculture or logging, this valuable carbon sink is lost, and the carbon stored in the trees is released, contributing to climate change.

• Deforestation is responsible for 12-20% of global greenhouse gas emissions (Climate Funds Update).

• Tropical rainforests are being destroyed at a rate of 27 football fields every minute (WWF).

Overpopulation

As the global population grows, so does the demand for food, water and energy. This leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, energy production, and other human activities. The global population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 and 10.4 billion by 2100 (United Nations). This rapid population growth puts immense pressure on the planet’s resources, including food, water, and energy.

• The richest 10% of the world’s population are responsible for more than twice as much carbon pollution as the poorest half (3.1 billion people) (Oxfam).

• It is estimated that energy accounts for more than 75% of greenhouse gas emissions globally (International Energy Agency, 2023).

• If everyone in the world lived like the average person in the United States, we would need 5 Earths to sustain our consumption (Statista).

Country-specific climate change statistics

Climate change affects countries differently, depending on geographical location, population size, and economic structure. Here are some interesting climate change statistics for ten countries:

1. United Kingdom: In 2020, the UK experienced its third warmest year on record, and sea levels around the UK’s coast have risen by 1.4 mm annually over the past 100 years (Met Office).

2. United States: The average temperature in the U.S. has risen by 0.7°C since 1895, with most of the change occurring after 1970 (National Climate Assessment).

3. Germany: In Germany, 2018 was the warmest year since 1881, with an average temperature of 10.5°C, which is 2.2°C above the reference period from 1961 to 1990 (Deutscher Wetterdienst).

4. France: France experienced its hottest year in 2020, with temperatures reaching 1.5°C above the average (Meteo France).

5. Italy: In Italy, 2019 was the third warmest year since 1800 (Coldiretti).

6. Spain: Spain experienced its second warmest year on record in 2017, 1.1°C above the average temperature for the period 1981-2010 (AEMET).

7. China: From 1951 to 2021, the average annual surface temperature in China has increased by 0.26 °C every decade (CMA).

8. Brazil: Brazil’s mean temperature was 1.17°C warmer in 2021 than the average recorded from 1951 to 1980 (Statista).

9. Japan: Japan experienced its warmest summer in 2020 since record-keeping began in 1898 (The Japan Times).

10. Australia: Australia experienced its hottest year on record in 2019, with temperatures 1.52°C above the average (The Guardian).

How to stop climate change

As one of the biggest challenges humanity has faced, climate change demands immediate action. That’s why it’s vital we find effective strategies and actionable steps to not only stop but ultimately reverse the effects. Here are the top 10 solutions to climate change:

Switch to renewable energy sources

Switching from fossil fuels to renewables like solar, wind, and hydro is a top solution to climate change. They’re cleaner and help significantly cut down on greenhouse gases. Unlike fossil fuels, they don’t add to our carbon problem when we use them. But there’s more because renewables also help us rely less on finite, price-volatile fossil fuels. Plus, they’re getting cheaper and creating jobs. Governments can help speed up the changeover with incentives and funding for renewable projects, while also investing in the infrastructure needed. We can all do our part too. Think solar panels on your roof, buying renewable energy credits or supporting local renewable projects. Businesses can lower their carbon footprints by switching their operations to renewables. In short, embracing renewables is key to fighting climate change. They’ve already made a big dent in carbon emissions, and with the right tech and policies, they can contribute to a more sustainable future.

• In 2021, renewables made up 38% of global electricity (International Renewable Energy Agency, 2022).

• Electricity from renewable sources could provide 65% of the world’s total supply by 2030 and decarbonise 90% of the power sector by 2050 (United Nations).

Improve energy efficiency in buildings and transportation

Focusing on making buildings and transportation more energy-efficient is hugely important. By making sure buildings use less energy, e.g. thanks to insulation, for things like heating and lighting, and that transportation doesn’t consume as much fuel, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. This also means we’re cutting down on greenhouse gases, which play a big role in global warming. And on top of all that these changes can save a lot of money on energy costs, while also helping protect our environment.

• Globally, 95% of the energy used for transportation comes from burning fossil fuels (European Environment Agency).

• Buildings account for 30% of global energy consumption and 26% of global energy-related emissions (International Energy Agency).

• Transport accounts for more than 33% of CO2 emissions (International Energy Agency).

• New buildings can cut their emissions by up to 70% with efficient design and use of cleaner electricity (American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy).

• Electric vehicles emit between 37% and 82% fewer emissions than petrol cars (Transport and Environment).

Enhance carbon sequestration through reforestation and habitat restoration

Reforestation and habitat restoration are powerful tools in our fight against climate change. That’s because they’re great strategies for carbon sequestration, which involves capturing and storing carbon dioxide. When we reforest, we’re essentially planting carbon-absorbing trees – nature’s very own carbon storage facilities. Similarly, habitat restoration increases vegetation which helps pull more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. So, although exploring advanced technology and renewable energy is important, we shouldn’t overlook the power of our natural resources in combating climate change.

• The world’s forests have been absorbing up to 30% of global carbon emissions every year (Nature.com)

• By planting more than a half trillion trees, we could capture about 205 gigatons of carbon, which would reduce atmospheric carbon by about 25 per cent (NASA, 2019).

Adopt sustainable agricultural practices

This approach emphasizes environmentally friendly farming methods that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water, protect biodiversity and promote soil health. By implementing sustainable agricultural practices, farmers can minimize their carbon footprint, enhance food security and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system.

• Agricultural activities alone contribute to around 17% of global greenhouse gas emissions (Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, 2018).

• Food is responsible for between 21% and 37% of total global greenhouse gas emissions (IPCC, Special Report on Climate Change and Land 2019).

• Researchers estimate that sustainable agricultural practices, such as precision farming, organic farming, agroforestry, and conservation agriculture, could reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the agricultural sector by up to 30% by 2030.

Reduce meat consumption to cut down on methane emissions

One effective way to tackle climate change is to reduce meat consumption, particularly red meat. Livestock production is a significant contributor to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes significantly to global warming. In fact, methane has a warming potential 25 times greater than carbon dioxide over 100 years. Cattle farming, in particular, is responsible for a significant portion of livestock emissions, as cows produce methane not only when digesting but also when their manure decomposes. That’s why eating greener (i.e. reducing your meat consumption and switching to a more plant-based or flexitarian diet) can help mitigate methane emissions and combat climate change.

• Global livestock accounts for approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions (Food and Agriculture Organization).

• It takes about 15,000 litres of water to produce 1 kilogram of beef but less than 3,000 litres to grow 1 kilogram of cereal (Food and Agriculture Organisation).

• A global transition to a plant-based diet could reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture by up to 73% (University of Oxford).

Implement carbon pricing mechanisms

Carbon pricing is a great way to help reduce emissions by putting a price on carbon, incentivizing industries to adopt cleaner technologies, and encouraging investment in renewable energy sources. By internalizing the costs of carbon emissions, carbon pricing mechanisms can play a significant role in creating a sustainable and low-carbon future.

• As of 2021, there are over 64 carbon pricing initiatives implemented or scheduled globally, covering 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions (World Bank).

• Carbon pricing could reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by up to 25% by 2030 (International Monetary Fund).

Promote research and development of low-carbon technologies

Researching and developing low-carbon technologies is a key part of our efforts to tackle climate change. By investing in these technologies, we’re not only helping cut down greenhouse gas emissions but also paving the way for a sustainable future. It’s a smart move that brings multiple benefits – from mitigating climate change and reducing emissions to boosting energy security and creating jobs.

• In 2022, $7 trillion was spent on global fossil fuel subsidies (International Monetary Fund).

• Yet only $480 billion was spent on clean energy (International Energy Agency).

Increase climate change education and awareness

Boosting climate change education and providing energy advice can empower individuals to take informed actions towards a sustainable future. Benefits include encouraging sustainable behaviours and supporting green policies. Education can also inspire green innovation, build resilience to climate impacts, and strengthen international cooperation. Ultimately, enhanced climate awareness can guide us towards a more sustainable future.

• Only 53% of the world’s national education curricula make any reference to climate change (UNESCO).

• Only 57% of Americans believe climate change is mostly caused by humans (Yale).

Advocate for international cooperation and policy making

Addressing climate change requires concerted global action, so international cooperation is crucial. The Paris Agreement, which is an international treaty signed by 194 countries (plus the European Union), aims to limit global warming to below 2°C.

• It is clear that without international cooperation the goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C cannot be achieved (International Renewable Energy Agency).

• We can only reduce emissions by 50%, in line with the Paris Agreement, with internal cooperation – monetary policy alone is not enough (European Central Bank).

Encourage individual actions such as recycling and reducing energy consumption

While it’s clear that big changes are incredibly important, we can’t ignore the power of our everyday choices in making a difference. When we recycle, we’re not only reducing waste but also saving important resources and cutting down on the greenhouse gases emitted when producing new products. What’s more, policies like the Climate Change Levy are encouraging businesses to use less energy by adopting smarter practices and technologies, which helps us lower carbon emissions and create a greener world. By supporting and rewarding these kinds of actions, we can empower everyone to fight climate change in their daily lives.

• The average global carbon footprint per person is about 4 tons but needs to drop under 2 tons by 2050 (The Nature Conservancy).

• The richest 0.1% are responsible for more than 200 tonnes of carbon emissions per person per year (Stockholm Environment Institute).

• 85% of British citizens agreed that if everyone does their bit, we can reduce the effects of climate change (UK Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy).

Frequently Asked Questions about Climate Change

If you’re looking to get a better grasp on this tricky topic, we’ve got responses to a few frequently asked questions about climate change:

What are the most dangerous types of climate change?

Extreme weather events such as heatwaves, hurricanes, and heavy rainfall are among the most dangerous effects of climate change. These events can cause massive destruction and loss of life. Sea level rise, droughts, and increasing temperatures also pose significant threats, particularly to vulnerable communities and ecosystems.

What is the biggest cause of climate change?

The burning of fossil fuels for energy and transportation is the largest single cause of climate change. It releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

How does climate change form?

Climate change is caused by changes in the greenhouse effect, a phenomenon where the Earth’s atmosphere traps some of the sun’s energy. Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, increase the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, enhancing the greenhouse effect and causing the Earth’s temperature to rise.

What level of climate change is dangerous?

Scientists agree that limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as set out in the Paris Agreement, is crucial to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Beyond this level, the risks of severe impacts such as extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and biodiversity loss increase significantly.

It’s not too late

Climate change is a complex and urgent issue that demands immediate action. The climate change facts we’ve discussed here highlight the severity of the problem, our inescapable responsibility and the need to transition to sustainable energy sources. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to implementing sustainable practices, every effort counts in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

While the consequences of climate change are daunting, it’s important to remember that we have the knowledge, technology, and resources to address this crisis. By understanding the facts about climate change and taking action, we can safeguard our planet for future generations.

In the words of Marlee Matlin, “The Earth does not belong to us: we belong to the Earth”. This powerful quote should serve as a constant reminder of not only our place in the world but also our duty to protect and preserve our shared home.