Global warming's pace quickens, warns new WMO chief
The World Meteorological Organization's new leader emphasizes the accelerating rate of human-caused climate change and its complex impacts.
Seth Borenstein reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo highlights the worrying trend of rapid climate change and its uncertain future implications.
- Saulo points to the Arctic's amplified warming leading to more frequent cold outbreaks in North America and Europe.
- The lack of global preparedness for extreme weather events, especially in the global south, is a major concern.
Key quote:
"We are lagging behind our objectives because of our interests — economic interests — that are well beyond what our common sense, our diplomats and our scientists are pointing out."
— Celeste Saulo, WMO Secretary-General
Why this matters:
This revelation from the WMO chief highlights the balance between economic interests and environmental responsibility, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and adaptation, especially in vulnerable regions. This issue is central to understanding the global challenge of climate change and its far-reaching impacts on health, safety, and sustainability.
With the fingerprints of climate change on so many “natural disasters,” it’s time to retire “natural.”
