Earth’s average temperature has exceeded 1.5°C above preindustrial levels since last July.
Record-breaking temperatures led to deadly heat waves, wildfires typhoons worldwide.
Scientists warn that these events indicate a weakening resilience of natural systems.
Key quote:
“The extreme events that we are now experiencing are indications of the weakening resilience of these systems. We cannot risk pushing this any further.”
— Johan Rockström, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research
Why this matters:
Rising temperatures and increased frequency of extreme weather events threaten global ecosystems and human health. Immediate action to reduce carbon emissions is critical to prevent crossing irreversible climate thresholds.
Owners of 62 homes worth at least $1 million received recovery grants after Hurricane Sandy when HUD weakened rules meant to make needy people the priority, POLITICO’s E&E News found.
Even before Superstorm Sandy's floodwaters surged over New York City’s Rockaway Peninsula, there was an air of decay in Edgemere, a far-flung seaside neighborhood long pockmarked with boarded-up homes and vacant lots with waist-high weeds.
