Climate change could cut global GDP in half by late 21st century

Without urgent action to curb emissions and restore ecosystems, the global economy could shrink by 50% between 2070 and 2090 due to climate-driven disasters, according to a report by actuaries and scientists.

Sandra Laville reports for The Guardian.

In short:

A study by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries warns climate impacts like extreme weather and ecosystem collapse could devastate the global economy.
Current economic models underestimate risks by ignoring tipping points and systemic failures caused by global heating.
The report calls for policymakers to adopt a "planetary solvency" approach to protect the Earth's systems essential for human survival.

Key quote:

“You can’t have an economy without a society, and a society needs somewhere to live.”

— Sandy Trust, lead author of the report

Why this matters:

Climate-related shocks could disrupt food, water and energy systems, threatening billions of lives and global stability. Ignoring these risks perpetuates inadequate policies, leaving humanity unprepared for worsening crises.

www.theguardian.com

Climate change could cut global GDP in half by late 21st century

The Great Olympic lie: untold story of Winter Games’ huge environmental impact

US Environmental Protection Agency repeals Biden-era coal rules aimed at limiting brain-harming pollution

Mercury pollution and human health

Researchers warn of negative health outcomes from fracking in the B.C. Peace region

Is climate change making inflation worse?

As climate crisis upended homeowners insurance, the industry resisted regulation

What happens if New York buildings use less gas?

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.