The colorful coral reefs in warm waters are bleaching and dying faster than ever before – and due to the rapid global warming, they risk becoming the world's first so-called tipping point in the climate system. This is stated by a large number of researchers in a newly published climate report.
This is our second report, the first came in 2023. Tipping points are major changes in the climate system that imply major consequences, says Laura Pereira, who is one of the researchers behind the study, to TT.
The coral reefs are the hardest to save, with a global warming of 1.5 degrees. But with that said, there are things you can do, she continues.
It is most important
What does Laura Pereira mean?
To reduce greenhouse gases. And that quickly, and extensively. For the coral reefs not to die, a return of the global warming to around 1 degree is required.
This is the most important thing, she says.
The current global warming means that the world is close to several more tipping points, according to the report. Among other things, melting inland ice, a collapse of the Amazon rainforest and changes in important ocean currents are mentioned.
”Not hopeless”
The new report is released ahead of the UN's major climate meeting COP30 in Brazil in November. According to the researchers, the key to avoiding a disaster is to act promptly by triggering positive tipping points, such as the spread of green technology.
There are things you can do, the situation is not completely hopeless, says Laura Pereira.
