The global average surface temperature has risen by an average of 0.14° Fahrenheit (0.08° Celsius) per decade since 1880, or about 2° F in total. The rate of warming since 1981 is more than twice as fast: 0.32° F (0.18° C) per decade. If all the ice covering Antarctica, Greenland, and in mountain glaciers around the world were to melt, sea level would rise about 70 meters (230 feet). This would drastically alter our coastlines and submerge many cities worldwide. However, it’s important to note that not all land will be underwater. The Himalayas, for example, will not be submerged.
The Impact of Ocean Warming on Global Temperatures
The ocean, often overlooked in the climate conversation, plays a pivotal role in regulating global temperatures. It absorbs about 90% of the heat generated by rising emissions. This excessive heat and energy warms the ocean, leading to cascading effects, including ice-melting, sea-level rise, marine heatwaves, and ocean acidification.
Sea-Level Rise
Sea-level rise has accelerated in recent decades due to increasing ice loss in the world’s polar regions. Heat stored in the ocean causes its water to expand, which is responsible for one-third to one-half of global sea level rise.
Marine Heatwaves
Marine heatwaves have doubled in frequency and have become longer-lasting, more intense, and extensive. These heatwaves cause widespread coral bleaching and reef degradation.
Loss of Marine Biodiversity
Rising temperatures increase the risk of irreversible loss of marine and coastal ecosystems. These ecosystems are home to a diverse range of species and play a crucial role in maintaining the planet’s health. Their loss would be a devastating blow to global biodiversity.
Urgency of Addressing Global Warming
Every rise in warming is worse for the planet than the last. It’s not too late to slow the pace of climate change and avert the worst impacts of the climate crisis — as long as we act today. The new IPCC report paints an alarming picture of rapidly growing risks currently being felt around the world, including widespread damages to human and ecological health.
Call to Action
We must act now. Each one of us can make a difference by reducing our carbon footprint and supporting policies aimed at mitigating climate change. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to preserve our planet. Let’s take action today for a better tomorrow.
Remember, there is no Planet B.
