London, 16 March (EFE). Reaching net-zero carbon dioxide emissions will not be enough to save the planet, according to the head of the UK Environment Agency, James Bevan, who has warned that countries must adapt to severe weather and rising sea levels.
As announced in a statement issued by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Bevan will warn the government and sector groups at a roundtable Tuesday that focusing efforts solely on reducing carbon dioxide emissions will not be sufficient to combat the climate emergency. enough.
The expert will say on this aspect: “Even if the world now curbed all of its carbon emissions, the effects of those that have already occurred will be felt for decades.”
You will remember that “global average temperatures have already warmed by 1 degree Celsius above pre-industrial temperatures, and we are seeing evidence of floods, droughts, water shortages and more frequent and intense fires, plus more rapid, intense and possibly permanent coastal erosion.” Damage to people, plants, wildlife and cultural heritage.
It would also warn that “in all future climate scenarios, regardless of the speed at which we move towards zero emissions, we will witness a continuous rise in sea level into the next century,” noting that “the average sea level has already risen by about 16. Cm since 1900 and could increase by more than a meter by the end of this century.
The memo notes that the Environment Agency and Bureau of Meteorology forecasts show that under all greenhouse gas emissions scenarios, sea levels will continue to rise to 2,300, and possibly as high as 4.5 meters.
Bevan will say, “Even with ambitious global and national measures to reduce emissions, it is now imperative that there will be some (impact) of new climate change,” explaining that “for this reason, it is imperative that the country be prepared in a way that makes us resilient in the face of future adversity and impacts. Potential that may affect our economy, prosperity and lifestyle.
In his speech, he will highlight the need to “design and build infrastructures, cities and the economy to be resilient in the face of climate change impacts”. EFE
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