Climate Impact and Global Risks
The World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report recently highlighted extreme weather events as the second most challenging security threat, following armed conflicts. A critical assessment by the Global Climate Risk Index (CRI) provides a detailed analysis of the climate crisis over the past thirty years.
Key Findings from the Global Climate Risk Index
- It is conducted regularly since 2006 by the international think tank German Watch.
- From 1993 to 2022, over 9,400 extreme weather events were recorded globally.
- These events resulted in more than 7,65,000 fatalities.
- The estimated economic losses due to these events exceeded $4 trillion, adjusted for inflation.
- India was notably affected, accounting for one in ten climate casualties during this period, ranking as the sixth worst-affected country.
Current Climate Phenomena
The report indicates an unpredictable phase of climate change, exemplified by the delayed onset of La Nina and record temperatures. Last January recorded the highest global average surface temperature of 13.23 degrees Celsius, which is 1.75 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Regional Vulnerabilities and Heatwaves
- The report underscores the vulnerability of hotter regions to climate change impacts, particularly heatwaves.
- It notes that climate change makes "early heat in India and Pakistan 30 times more likely," ranking these countries among the top nine heatwave-prone areas.
Adaptation and Resilience Efforts
The CRI recognizes some progress in climate adaptation projects, such as Ahmedabad’s Heat Action Plan. However, it stresses the inadequacy of global efforts in building climate resilience.
- The report highlights deficits in finance and technology transfers from developed to developing nations as significant issues.
- It calls for broader engagement beyond UNFCCC negotiations, suggesting forums like the G-20 or regional cooperation for effective climate crisis management.
