2020 in climate change

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20201231 Vital signs of the planet - NASA - climate change

2020 in climate change refers to significant environmental and climatic events that occurred throughout the year 2020. This year was marked by a series of extreme weather events, policy shifts, and scientific milestones that contributed to the ongoing discussion and action on global climate change. The impacts of these events were felt globally, affecting ecosystems, human health, and economies.

Global Temperature Records

The year 2020 was one of the warmest on record, with global temperatures averaging 1.2°C above pre-industrial levels. This brought the world dangerously close to the 1.5°C threshold, which scientists warn could trigger more severe climate impacts. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and various climate research agencies reported these findings, highlighting the urgent need for climate action to prevent further warming.

Wildfires

Wildfires were rampant in several parts of the world, including Australia, the Amazon Rainforest, and the western United States. The Australian bushfires, which began in late 2019 and continued into early 2020, were among the most devastating, burning millions of hectares, destroying homes, and resulting in loss of life, both human and wildlife. These fires were exacerbated by prolonged droughts and record-breaking temperatures, factors that are linked to climate change.

Cyclones and Hurricanes

The Atlantic hurricane season was exceptionally active in 2020, with a record-breaking number of named storms. Hurricanes, such as Hurricane Laura and Hurricane Sally, caused significant damage in the Caribbean and the United States. Scientists have found that climate change is making hurricanes more intense and more frequent, a trend that is expected to continue as global temperatures rise.

Policies and Agreements

In terms of policy, 2020 saw both setbacks and advancements in the fight against climate change. The United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), initially scheduled for 2020, was postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, several countries announced more ambitious climate targets. For example, the European Union unveiled its European Green Deal, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050. Similarly, China announced its intention to become carbon neutral by 2060.

Scientific Advances and Public Awareness

Scientific research in 2020 continued to shed light on the impacts of climate change and the urgency of mitigating it. Studies on ice melt in Greenland and Antarctica raised concerns about rising sea levels, while research on the world's oceans highlighted the increasing rates of ocean acidification and warming. Public awareness and activism for climate action remained high, despite the challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Youth-led movements, inspired by figures such as Greta Thunberg, continued to advocate for stronger climate policies and action.

Conclusion

The events of 2020 in climate change underscored the critical state of the global environment and the urgent need for comprehensive action to mitigate climate change. The year highlighted the interconnectedness of climate systems and the wide-ranging impacts of climate change, from extreme weather events to policy shifts and scientific discoveries. As the world moves forward, the lessons and challenges of 2020 will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping future climate action.

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