Question

Compared to preindustrial times, how much have we already warmed, and what is the Paris Agreement's target for warming? How are we currently doing with regard to meeting this goal (not exceeding this target)?

Short answer

The global average temperature has already warmed by approximately 1.2°C (2.16°F) compared to preindustrial times. The Paris Agreement's target is to limit global average temperature increase to well below 2°C (3.6°F) above preindustrial levels, ideally limiting it to 1.5°C (2.7°F). However, current efforts and progress are not sufficient to meet these targets, and more aggressive and coordinated actions are needed to mitigate climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.

Step-by-step solution

Study the latest scientific data on global warming

First, we need to gather information on global warming compared to preindustrial times. Generally, the baseline is considered the late 19th century (around 1880).

Determine the Paris Agreement's target for warming

Next, we need to look at the Paris Agreement and its goals, which were set to limit global warming.

Analyze our current performance regarding meeting the target

Finally, we need to compare current global warming with the Paris Agreement's target and determine whether we are on track to meet it. Now, let's answer the questions based on the available data:

Comparison of current warming to preindustrial times

According to the NOAA and IPCC reports, as of 2021, the global average temperature has increased by approximately 1.2°C (2.16°F) compared to preindustrial times (late 19th century).

The Paris Agreement's target for warming

The Paris Agreement, signed in 2016 by 196 countries, aims to hold the increase in global average temperature to well below 2°C (3.6°F) above preindustrial levels. More ambitiously, it also seeks to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C (2.7°F) above preindustrial levels.

Current progress towards meeting the Paris Agreement's target

Despite the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and switch to renewable energy, the current trajectory suggests that the 1.5°C target is at risk of being exceeded. The progress varies among different countries, but overall, we are not on track to meet the set goals of the Paris Agreement. To achieve the target, more aggressive and coordinated efforts are needed to mitigate climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.

Key concepts

Global Warming

Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities. Since the late 19th century, this warming has been primarily driven by increased concentrations of greenhouse gases, such as CO2 and methane. These gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to a gradual rise in temperatures. This process is often accelerated by the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and various industrial activities that release large amounts of these gases into the atmosphere.
As global warming continues, it leads to more frequent extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity. To combat this, international agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to limit further temperature increases.

Preindustrial Times Temperature Increase

The term 'preindustrial times' typically refers to the period before the industrial revolution, around the late 19th century. During this time, human activities had significantly less impact on the Earth's climate. The baseline temperature of this era is used as a reference point for measuring contemporary temperature increases.
According to scientific assessments, as of 2021, the global average temperature has risen by approximately 1.2°C (2.16°F) since preindustrial times. This significant warming is a major concern because it has profound implications for climate stability and can lead to severe environmental changes. To manage the risks of an overly warm planet, numerous international efforts focus on maintaining global temperatures within safer limits.

Climate Change Mitigation

Climate change mitigation encompasses strategies and actions aimed at reducing the long-term risks and impacts associated with global warming. This primarily involves decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing systems for carbon capture and storage.
To effectively mitigate climate change, nations implement various measures such as:

• Improving energy efficiency across industries
• Protecting and restoring forests
• Promoting clean transportation options
• Expanding carbon capture and storage technologies

These strategies require global cooperation, substantial investment, and a shift in policy and consumer behavior. Without effective mitigation, the world risks experiencing severe and irreversible impacts on weather patterns, food production, and human health.

Renewable Energy Transition

The transition to renewable energy is a crucial component of combating climate change and meeting international climate targets like those outlined in the Paris Agreement. This transition involves shifting energy production from fossil fuels to renewable sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power.
Renewable energy provides several benefits:

• Reduces carbon footprint by minimizing greenhouse gas emissions
• Offers a sustainable and inexhaustible energy supply
• Decreases reliance on finite natural resources
• Boosts energy security and creates job opportunities in new sectors

Despite these advantages, the transition faces challenges such as financial costs, technology development, and the need for new infrastructure. Nonetheless, accelerating the adoption of renewable energy is imperative for achieving a sustainable and resilient future.