The state of climate emergency is declared by 11,000 scientists

In a joint statement, more than 11,000 scientists from around the world took the floor to warn the public about the risks to humanity caused by climate change. Believing that there is no more time to lose, they call for a rapid and radical change in mentalities.

On the occasion of the fortieth anniversary of the first World Climate Conference held in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1979, more than 11,000 scientists from 153 countries decided to join their voices. At the initiative of William Ripple, a researcher at Oregon State University (USA), they chose strong words to show the urgency of the situation.

A crisis caused by human activity

The tone is alarming, to say the least: "  We declare clearly and unequivocally that planet Earth is facing a climate emergency  ". Moreover, according to the authors of the text, published yesterday in the journal BioScience, the crisis is "  more serious than expected, and threatens the natural ecosystems and the destiny of humanity  ".

To support their point, the scientists added a series of graphs, highlighting the extent of the phenomenon. This includes the increase since 1980 in the number of greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide and methane) in the air, the temperature at the Earth's surface, the sea level or the number of extreme weather events. Signs that are paralleled with other growths: those of the population, air transport, and meat consumption.

Major disruptions essential

But the researchers say it's not too late. However, we must act as quickly as possible: "  To ensure a sustainable future, we must change the way we live,  " say the signatories. And this, to avoid "  untold suffering due to the climate crisis  ".

They have identified some priority actions:

• Improve energy efficiency and introduce high taxes on greenhouse gas emissions, to reduce the use of fossil fuels.


• Stabilize the world's population, through ethical approaches, including better access to education for girls in several countries.


• End the destruction of nature, including restoring forests.


• Consume less meat and more vegetables, and reduce food waste.


• Stop focusing solely on GDP growth.

In addition, scientists have noted some encouraging signs, such as the global birth rate decline or increased investment in renewable energy. They, therefore, call for intensifying these efforts.

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Will this forum be followed up? Other initiatives of this type have already emerged in the past, including a "Warning of scientists of the world to humanity" published in ... 1992. Let us cross our fingers so that the message is more heard this time.

Source: The Guardian