A panel of government advisors on Tuesday advised Britain to remedy a "lost decade" of minimal planning to mitigate the worst effects of climate change. The report comes as the Conservative government readies to outline "energy security" amid the power crisis triggered by the Ukraine-Russia war. Experts said that last year's record-breaking heat and wildfires were a portent of what's to come. "The last decade has been a lost decade in terms of preparing for and adapting to the risks, the risks we already have, and those that we know are coming," said adaptation committee chairwoman Julia King. The report predicts that even if the UK meets its "net zero" carbon emissions by 2050 goal, things could still take a turn for the worse.&nbsp;

No matter what measures are taken, rising temperatures are here to stay, the report said. This&nbsp;necessitates new initiatives to adapt energy and water supplies, buildings, transport networks and other necessary infrastructure.

Watch |&nbsp;Spain wildfire a sign of things to come | WION Climate Tracker<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spain-wildfire-a-sign-of-things-to-come-wion-climate-tracker-576630/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

"The government's lack of urgency around climate resilience is increasingly in contrast to the experience of the population in the UK, and the impacts are only going to get worse," King told reporters.

She added that "adaptation can no longer be left as the Cinderella of climate change."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-un-report-delivers-final-warning-on-climate-crisis-here-are-some-key-takeaways-574398">Explained | UN report delivers ‘final warning’ on climate crisis. Here are some key takeaways</a>

Chris Stark, the chief executive of the UK's climate change committee, said that years of warming temperatures are in store no matter what and that we have "no option but to adapt to the change in the climate."

"The question is only whether we do that well, by doing it early, or wait till later when it will cost more and increase the disruption," he said.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-new-study-claims-to-have-found-breakthrough-in-sucking-up-co2-from-atmosphere-570262">A new study claims to have found breakthrough in sucking up CO2 from atmosphere</a>

As per the report, there was "no visible plan or process" to protect UK telecommunications and IT systems from coming heatwaves. King warned that if the critical sector is affected, it could lead to "cascading failures" throughout the economy.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A panel of government advisors on Tuesday advised Britain to remedy a "lost decade" of minimal planning to mitigate the worst effects of climate change. The report comes as the Conservative government readies to outline "energy security" amid the power crisis triggered by the Ukraine-Russia war.

A panel of government advisors on Tuesday advised Britain to remedy a "lost decade" of minimal planning to mitigate the worst effects of climate change. The report comes as the Conservative government readies to outline "energy security" amid the power crisis triggered by the Ukraine-Russia war. Experts said that last year's record-breaking heat and wildfires were a portent of what's to come. "The last decade has been a lost decade in terms of preparing for and adapting to the risks, the risks we already have, and those that we know are coming," said adaptation committee chairwoman Julia King. The report predicts that even if the UK meets its "net zero" carbon emissions by 2050 goal, things could still take a turn for the worse. No matter what measures are taken, rising temperatures are here to stay, the report said. This necessitates new initiatives to adapt energy and water supplies, buildings, transport networks and other necessary infrastructure. Watch | Spain wildfire a sign of things to come | WION Climate Tracker "The government's lack of urgency around climate resilience is increasingly in contrast to the experience of the population in the UK, and the impacts are only going to get worse," King told reporters. She added that "adaptation can no longer be left as the Cinderella of climate change." Also read | Explained | UN report delivers ‘final warning’ on climate crisis. Here are some key takeaways Chris Stark, the chief executive of the UK's climate change committee, said that years of warming temperatures are in store no matter what and that we have "no option but to adapt to the change in the climate." "The question is only whether we do that well, by doing it early, or wait till later when it will cost more and increase the disruption," he said. Also read | A new study claims to have found breakthrough in sucking up CO2 from atmosphere As per the report, there was "no visible plan or process" to protect UK telecommunications and IT systems from coming heatwaves. King warned that if the critical sector is affected, it could lead to "cascading failures" throughout the economy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Climate crisis: UK govt told to fix 'lost decade' of minimal planning, mitigation

Rural communities in Western Mississippi are surveying and cleaning up the damage after an unusual and powerful tornado. But as severe weather gets more common, scientists and forecasters are contending with a difficult question as to how we work together to explain the role of climate change. Rohit Wellington brings you the report.

Increasing temperatures leading to increasing tornadoes? | WION Climate Tracker

Is Spain's heatwave a result of climate change? The answer is yes. Experts say greenhouse gases released by human activity are causing global temperatures to spike. Rohit Wellington brings you the report.

Spain wildfire a sign of things to come | WION Climate Tracker

But how is climate change impacting landslides? Experts now argue that historic agricultural practices have played a key role in shaping today’s landscapes impacting historic landscape change and leading to soil erosion, degradation and frequent landslides. Rohit Wellington brings you the report.

Climate change & unplanned urban sprawl bring more landslides | WION Climate Tracker

Mississippi is facing the wrath of mother nature. At least about 26 people are reported to have been killed and dozens of others are injured in Mississippi that has been struck by massive tornado and strong thunderstorms.

US: Devastating Tornado in Mississippi kills 26, more severe weather expected

After a devastating tornado that ravaged parts of Mississippi and West Georgia, the region is now in for another round of thunderstorms. The tornado outbreak that was described as "large and extremely dangerous" by the national weather service killed at least 25 and left dozens of others injured in Mississippi.

Devasting tornadoes wreak havoc in West Georgia and Mississippi

Spain's first major wildfire of the year raged in the Eastern Valencia region on Friday. The wildfire scorched more than 4,000 hectares of forest and forced at least 1,500 people to evacuate from the Valencia region.

Spain witnesses major wildfire

The fight for the German capital to become carbon neutral comes to an end. Turns out, not enough voters in Berlin supported a push to make the capital city carbon-neutral by 2030. The results from a referendum were declared on Sunday.

Berlin climate change fails to get enough votes

To address the issue of the water crisis worldwide, the first major UN Conference on water in over 45 years kicked off on Wednesday with an urgent call to sustainably manage "the world’s most important resource."

UN opens first major water conference in 45 years

In pics | Lights off! Indian cities mark 'Earth Hour'

A forest fire raged in eastern spain, forcing hundreds of people to evacuate from nearby villages and sending huge plumes of smoke into the air.

Wildfire in Eastern Spain

In southern California, United States, the ongoing "winter weather drama" took a wilder turn as a tornado on Wednesday tore through the city, ripping roofs off of buildings and smashing cars around. The tornado, as per AFP, raked the city of Montebello near Los Angeles. Residents were left scrambling for safety as the storm destroyed cars, broke windows and created a "mess." Aerial pictures taken after the tornado showed several roofs with holes in them, pipes and other installations twisted and broken, and vehicles appear to have been dragged out of their parking spaces.

Speaking to broadcaster KTLA, one local business owner described his experience of suddenly coming face to face with the storm and said he was driving when he "saw this tornado in front of me and had to reverse out."

Watch |&nbsp;U.S: Recent storm inundated California | WION Climate Tracker

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-recent-storm-inundanted-california-wion-climate-tracker-573951/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The tornado took off the roof of the building. All the windows of the cars are shattered. Cars were destroyed, it was just a mess."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
tornado in Montebello - California - damaged few buildings and some cars were damaged <a href="https://t.co/h2Vq3frHyc">pic.twitter.com/h2Vq3frHyc</a>
— Sanj (@sanjmovies) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjmovies/status/1638634964177567745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I saw cars just swivelling through the streets and it was just the craziest thing I've ever seen," they added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-roads-farmland-houses-and-cars-underwater-in-california-574605">In pics | Roads, farmland, houses and cars underwater in California</a>

The National Weather Service (NWS) said it was investigating the "weak tornado," and another one that hit Carpinteria, near Santa Barbara. The two storms, as per the weather agency, had winds of up to 85 miles an hour.

As per NWS, the southern Californian storm "damaged around 25 mobile home units and there was minor tree damage to the cemetery adjacent to the mobile home park."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-braces-for-more-flooding-as-another-atmospheric-river-approaches-571738">California braces for more flooding as another atmospheric river approaches</a>

Nevertheless, "this is a pretty significant tornado by (California) standards since it hit a populated area, clearly caused damage, and may have caused injuries," writes meteorologist Daniel Swain on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is a pretty significant tornado by CA standards since it hit a populated area, clearly caused damage, and may have caused injuries. (It's very hard to assess tornado strength from footage like this, but at the very least it appears stronger than a marginal/EF-0 event). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CAwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CAwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/Minrv5t54Q">https://t.co/Minrv5t54Q</a>
— Daniel Swain (@Weather_West) <a href="https://twitter.com/Weather_West/status/1638623656229371904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The tornadoes come after an intense storm that ripped through California, downing power lines and leaving thousands without electricity as the region was bombarded with heavy rain and snow.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

In southern California, United States, the ongoing "winter weather drama" took a wilder turn as a tornado on Wednesday tore through the city, ripping roofs off of buildings and smashing cars around.

In southern California, United States, the ongoing "winter weather drama" took a wilder turn as a tornado on Wednesday tore through the city, ripping roofs off of buildings and smashing cars around. The tornado, as per AFP, raked the city of Montebello near Los Angeles. Residents were left scrambling for safety as the storm destroyed cars, broke windows and created a "mess." Aerial pictures taken after the tornado showed several roofs with holes in them, pipes and other installations twisted and broken, and vehicles appear to have been dragged out of their parking spaces. Speaking to broadcaster KTLA, one local business owner described his experience of suddenly coming face to face with the storm and said he was driving when he "saw this tornado in front of me and had to reverse out." Watch | U.S: Recent storm inundated California | WION Climate Tracker "The tornado took off the roof of the building. All the windows of the cars are shattered. Cars were destroyed, it was just a mess." tornado in Montebello - California - damaged few buildings and some cars were damaged pic.twitter.com/h2Vq3frHyc — Sanj (@sanjmovies) March 22, 2023 × "I saw cars just swivelling through the streets and it was just the craziest thing I've ever seen," they added. Also read | In pics | Roads, farmland, houses and cars underwater in California The National Weather Service (NWS) said it was investigating the "weak tornado," and another one that hit Carpinteria, near Santa Barbara. The two storms, as per the weather agency, had winds of up to 85 miles an hour. As per NWS, the southern Californian storm "damaged around 25 mobile home units and there was minor tree damage to the cemetery adjacent to the mobile home park." Also read | California braces for more flooding as another atmospheric river approaches Nevertheless, "this is a pretty significant tornado by (California) standards since it hit a populated area, clearly caused damage, and may have caused injuries," writes meteorologist Daniel Swain on Twitter. This is a pretty significant tornado by CA standards since it hit a populated area, clearly caused damage, and may have caused injuries. (It's very hard to assess tornado strength from footage like this, but at the very least it appears stronger than a marginal/EF-0 event). #CAwx https://t.co/Minrv5t54Q — Daniel Swain (@Weather_West) March 22, 2023 × The tornadoes come after an intense storm that ripped through California, downing power lines and leaving thousands without electricity as the region was bombarded with heavy rain and snow. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Small tornado in California leaves cars and buildings damaged

A rare tornado touched down in a Los Angeles suburb ripping roofs off a line of commercial buildings and sending debris twisting into the sky and across a city block.

California struck by fierce tornado

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that the world is already only a few tenths of a degree away from the global target of limiting warming to 1.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that the world is already only a few tenths of a degree away from the global target of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. In its latest report on climate change, released on Monday (March 20), the IPCC said that there are multiple, feasible and effective options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to human-caused climate change. "This Synthesis Report underscores the urgency of taking more ambitious action and shows that if we act now, we can still secure a liveable sustainable future for all," the report said. Back in 2018, the IPCC highlighted the unprecedented scale of the challenge needed to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. But five years later, this challenge has even become greater because of a continued increase in greenhouse gas emissions. If left unchecked, climate change will undo a lot of the progress made over the past years in development. So what is climate change, what are its consequences and what are the solutions? What is climate change? According to the United Nations (UN), climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. The UN says that these shifts may be natural, such as through variations in the solar cycle. Climate change can affect our health, ability to grow food, housing, safety and work. "Some of us are already more vulnerable to climate impacts, such as people living in small island nations and other developing countries," the UN says. "Conditions like sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion have advanced to the point where whole communities have had to relocate, and protracted droughts are putting people at risk of famine. In the future, the number of “climate refugees” is expected to rise," it adds. What are the consequences? The UN says that the consequences of climate change include intense droughts, water scarcity, severe fires, rising sea levels, melting polar ice, catastrophic storms and declining biodiversity. What happens if climate change is left unchecked? If left unchecked, climate change can undo a lot of the progress made over the past years in development. It can also exacerbate threats such as food and water scarcity, which can lead to conflict. The UN says that doing nothing will end up costing a lot more than if actions are taken now that will lead to more jobs, greater prosperity, and better lives for all while reducing greenhouse emissions and building climate resilience. Is climate change affecting people's lives? Yes, people's lives are being affected by climate change. Severe weather and rising sea levels are affecting people and their properties in developed and developing countries. The UN points out that climate change is especially affecting the poor and vulnerable, as well as marginalised groups like women, children and the elderly. What are the solutions? Climate change can be addressed, but the efforts have to be ramped up. The UN says that countries must transform their energy, industries, transport, food, agriculture and forestry systems to ensure that rise in global temperatures can be limited to well below two degrees, perhaps even 1.5. "We also need to anticipate, adapt and become resilient to the current and future impacts of climate change," the UN says. It points out that many climate change solutions can deliver economic benefits while improving lives, and protecting the environment. The UN also says that switching energy systems from fossil fuels to renewables like solar or wind will reduce the emissions driving climate change. Switching energy systems from fossil fuels to renewables like solar or wind will reduce the emissions driving climate change. "But we have to start right now. While a growing coalition of countries is committing to net zero emissions by 2050, about half of emissions cuts must be in place by 2030 to keep warming below 1.5°C. Fossil fuel production must decline by roughly 6 per cent per year between 2020 and 2030." The importance of keeping warming below 1.5ºCelsius In several UN reports, thousands of scientists and government reviewers have agreed that limiting global temperature rise to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius would help avoid the worst climate impacts and maintain a livable climate. Yet policies which are currently in place point to a 2.8°C temperature rise by the end of the century. The Synthesis report on Monday said that if temperatures are to be kept to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, deep, rapid, and sustained greenhouse gas emissions reductions will be needed in all sectors this decade. Emissions need to go down and be cut by almost half by 2030, if this goal has any chance of being achieved. On Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the report as a “how-to guide to defuse the climate time bomb.” Guterres proposed to the G20 a "Climate Solidarity Pact,” where big emitters would make extra efforts to cut emissions, and wealthier countries would mobilise financial and technical resources to support emerging economies in a common effort to ensure that global temperatures do not rise by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: What is climate change? What are its consequences? | A lowdown

The United Nations-backed Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has released what is being described as a sobering report, with the bottom line being that the time on saving the planet is running out. The Synthesis Report of the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) was published on Monday (March 21) and is likely the final one of the series.&nbsp;

Why is the report important?

The mammoth Synthesis Report (SYR) of the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) comprised some of the most crucial findings about the knowledge of climate change, its impact and risks and how they can be mitigated and adapted to.&nbsp;

The important summary was a part of the six-part research which has now been completed after five years and draws on the findings of hundreds of scientists to provide a comprehensive assessment of the climate crisis. The 37-page document was made following a week of deliberations in Interlaken, Switzerland.&nbsp;

Extreme weather events are set to intensify

The findings also come as the world is witnessing the adverse effects of human-induced climate change including extreme weather events and widespread changes in our natural ecosystems, said the report. Additionally, these effects have also impacted people particularly, “Vulnerable communities who have historically contributed the least to current climate change are disproportionately affected,”&nbsp;the report noted.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/final-warning-over-devastating-climate-impacts-un-report-calls-for-urgent-action-573965">'Final warning' over devastating climate impacts: UN report calls for urgent action</a>

It also said that there is very little chance of keeping the world from warming by more than 1.5 degree Celsius, which the governments had previously pledged to avoid. However, since the global temperature has also risen by 1.1 degrees Celsius experts said that there is a chance it might breach the 1.5 degree Celsius threshold. The report has also said that the impacts related to this rise in temperature are also set to intensify.&nbsp;

According to the report, approximately 3.3-3.6 billion people are “highly vulnerable” to climate change while increasing weather and climate extreme events have exposed millions of people to acute food insecurity and reduced water security. The IPCC report also notes the disparity between rich nations and poorer countries, as the former has largely contributed to the rise in carbon dioxide emissions during industrialisation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/un-chief-says-climate-time-bomb-ticking-key-points-of-ipcc-report-574033">UN chief says 'climate time bomb ticking': Key points of IPCC report</a>

The emissions which to this day are present in the air but the brunt of which is being witnessed by the citizens of poorer countries who suffer due to the extreme weather events and are “up to 15 times more likely to die in floods, droughts and storms,”&nbsp;said Science panel chief Hoesung Lee as per Associated Press.&nbsp;

Rise in temperature and concentration of&nbsp;greenhouse gases&nbsp;

“It is unequivocal that human influence has warmed the atmosphere, ocean and land,”&nbsp;said the IPCC report, while also recognising the role of natural changes to the Earth’s climate. However, the report finds that out of the 1.07 degrees Celsius of the 1.09 degrees Celsius of the Earth’s global surface temperature rise is due to greenhouse gases associated with human activities.&nbsp;

“It has always been clear in the IPCC and in climate science, that it's not very likely that we always will stay below 1.5 degrees Celsius”, said Dr Oliver Geden a member of the report’s core writing team, as per BBC. Extreme heat events have resulted in human mortality and morbidity, the report stated and heat waves as well as heavy rain has become more frequent and intense since the 1950s.&nbsp;

The increases in well-mixed greenhouse gas concentrations are “unequivocally” caused by human activities and their consequential emissions. At least 42 per cent of the current cumulative net carbon dioxide emissions occurred between 1990 and 2019, said the report.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-ipcc-report-on-climate-change-574323">New IPCC report on climate change</a>

In 2019, the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere was higher than at any time in at least two million years while the concentration of methane and nitrous oxide was higher than at any time in at least 800,000 years.&nbsp;

Is it too late?

Once the global temperatures cross the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold, “the risks are starting to pile on,” said report co-author Francis X. Johnson to Associated Press. The report also mentions “tipping points” around that temperature which include the extinction of species like coral reefs, irreversible melting of ice sheets and sea level rise of several metres.&nbsp;

While UN chief Antonio Guterres has insisted that “the 1.5 degree limit is achievable”, some scientists and authors of the report are sceptical and said that reaching that threshold is “inevitable,” reported AP.&nbsp;

The report also notes that if it continues its consumption of fossil fuels either existing now or proposed the temperature will rise to at least two degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times. Although the data is from a few years ago, it does not account for the rise in the use of coal and natural gas recently which has been attributed to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/global-rankings-predict-high-risk-to-indian-states-due-to-climate-change-564342">Global rankings predict high risk to Indian states due to climate change</a>

Meanwhile, the authors of the report have also suggested numerous methods for adaptation which include reforms in agricultural practices, urban greening, and restoration of wetlands and upstream forest ecosystems have been effective in reducing flood risks and urban heat.&nbsp;

The report also calls for a combination of both non-structural and structural measures. Non-structural measures, like early warning systems, &nbsp;disaster risk management, climate services and social safety nets have broad applicability across multiple sectors, said the report.&nbsp;

The IPCC has also said that the emissions must be halved by the mid-2030s to limit the rise in temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius and called for countries and communities around the world to find ways to adapt to climate change with actions to reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-study-reveals-impacts-of-climate-change-on-mental-health-561630">New study reveals impact of climate change on mental health</a>

This also included the use of alternative energy options like wind and solar, using electric vehicles, promoting the use of public transport or enabling active mobility in urban areas like walking or cycling, and so on.&nbsp;

The IPCC chief told the AP that they do not tell nations what they need to do in order to limit the worst warming, adding “it’s up to each government to find the best solution.” He added, “The pace and scale of what has been done so far and current plans are insufficient to tackle climate change. We are walking when we should be sprinting.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The United Nations-backed Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has released what is being described as a sobering report, with the bottom line being that the time on saving the planet is running out.

The United Nations-backed Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has released what is being described as a sobering report, with the bottom line being that the time on saving the planet is running out. The Synthesis Report of the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) was published on Monday (March 21) and is likely the final one of the series. Why is the report important? The mammoth Synthesis Report (SYR) of the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) comprised some of the most crucial findings about the knowledge of climate change, its impact and risks and how they can be mitigated and adapted to. The important summary was a part of the six-part research which has now been completed after five years and draws on the findings of hundreds of scientists to provide a comprehensive assessment of the climate crisis. The 37-page document was made following a week of deliberations in Interlaken, Switzerland. Extreme weather events are set to intensify The findings also come as the world is witnessing the adverse effects of human-induced climate change including extreme weather events and widespread changes in our natural ecosystems, said the report. Additionally, these effects have also impacted people particularly, “Vulnerable communities who have historically contributed the least to current climate change are disproportionately affected,” the report noted. ALSO READ | 'Final warning' over devastating climate impacts: UN report calls for urgent action It also said that there is very little chance of keeping the world from warming by more than 1.5 degree Celsius, which the governments had previously pledged to avoid. However, since the global temperature has also risen by 1.1 degrees Celsius experts said that there is a chance it might breach the 1.5 degree Celsius threshold. The report has also said that the impacts related to this rise in temperature are also set to intensify. According to the report, approximately 3.3-3.6 billion people are “highly vulnerable” to climate change while increasing weather and climate extreme events have exposed millions of people to acute food insecurity and reduced water security. The IPCC report also notes the disparity between rich nations and poorer countries, as the former has largely contributed to the rise in carbon dioxide emissions during industrialisation. ALSO READ | UN chief says 'climate time bomb ticking': Key points of IPCC report The emissions which to this day are present in the air but the brunt of which is being witnessed by the citizens of poorer countries who suffer due to the extreme weather events and are “up to 15 times more likely to die in floods, droughts and storms,” said Science panel chief Hoesung Lee as per Associated Press. Rise in temperature and concentration of greenhouse gases “It is unequivocal that human influence has warmed the atmosphere, ocean and land,” said the IPCC report, while also recognising the role of natural changes to the Earth’s climate. However, the report finds that out of the 1.07 degrees Celsius of the 1.09 degrees Celsius of the Earth’s global surface temperature rise is due to greenhouse gases associated with human activities. “It has always been clear in the IPCC and in climate science, that it's not very likely that we always will stay below 1.5 degrees Celsius”, said Dr Oliver Geden a member of the report’s core writing team, as per BBC. Extreme heat events have resulted in human mortality and morbidity, the report stated and heat waves as well as heavy rain has become more frequent and intense since the 1950s. The increases in well-mixed greenhouse gas concentrations are “unequivocally” caused by human activities and their consequential emissions. At least 42 per cent of the current cumulative net carbon dioxide emissions occurred between 1990 and 2019, said the report. ALSO WATCH | New IPCC report on climate change In 2019, the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere was higher than at any time in at least two million years while the concentration of methane and nitrous oxide was higher than at any time in at least 800,000 years. Is it too late? Once the global temperatures cross the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold, “the risks are starting to pile on,” said report co-author Francis X. Johnson to Associated Press. The report also mentions “tipping points” around that temperature which include the extinction of species like coral reefs, irreversible melting of ice sheets and sea level rise of several metres. While UN chief Antonio Guterres has insisted that “the 1.5 degree limit is achievable”, some scientists and authors of the report are sceptical and said that reaching that threshold is “inevitable,” reported AP. The report also notes that if it continues its consumption of fossil fuels either existing now or proposed the temperature will rise to at least two degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times. Although the data is from a few years ago, it does not account for the rise in the use of coal and natural gas recently which has been attributed to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. ALSO READ | Global rankings predict high risk to Indian states due to climate change Meanwhile, the authors of the report have also suggested numerous methods for adaptation which include reforms in agricultural practices, urban greening, and restoration of wetlands and upstream forest ecosystems have been effective in reducing flood risks and urban heat. The report also calls for a combination of both non-structural and structural measures. Non-structural measures, like early warning systems, disaster risk management, climate services and social safety nets have broad applicability across multiple sectors, said the report. The IPCC has also said that the emissions must be halved by the mid-2030s to limit the rise in temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius and called for countries and communities around the world to find ways to adapt to climate change with actions to reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions. ALSO READ | New study reveals impact of climate change on mental health This also included the use of alternative energy options like wind and solar, using electric vehicles, promoting the use of public transport or enabling active mobility in urban areas like walking or cycling, and so on. The IPCC chief told the AP that they do not tell nations what they need to do in order to limit the worst warming, adding “it’s up to each government to find the best solution.” He added, “The pace and scale of what has been done so far and current plans are insufficient to tackle climate change. We are walking when we should be sprinting.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | UN report delivers ‘final warning’ on climate crisis. Here are some key takeaways

A crucial UN report has warned that the world will see its first full year with temperatures rising by 1.5 degree Celcius above pre-industrial levels in early 2030s. Severe impacts on climate will be seen more quickly at lower levels of global warming than previously expected, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) said.

IPCC released the final part of its mammoth <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/assessment-report/ar6/">sixth assessment report</a> on Monday. The IPCC consists of the world's leading climate scientists, who have issued a "final warning" on the deteriorating climate crisis. The IPCC, an intergovernmental body of the UN charged with advancing scientific knowledge about man-made climate change, has prepared detailed assessment reports about climate change amid a continuous rise in greenhouse gas emissions which have started to cause visible and irrevocable damage to the planet earth.&nbsp;

The report talks about causes, potential impacts and response options to tackle global warming and noted that only swift and drastic action can avert the situation.&nbsp;

IPCC said there is also a 50-50 chance that "by 2030, global surface temperature in any individual year could exceed 1.5C" in the a report synthesising its major findings over the last six years.&nbsp;

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said: "This report is a clarion call to massively fast-track climate efforts by every country and every sector and on every timeframe. Our world needs climate action on all fronts: everything, everywhere, all at once."&nbsp;

<h2>A call to the wealthy countries&nbsp;</h2>

Guterres also called on wealthy countries to move up their goals of achieving carbon neutrality as close as possible to 2040, mostly from 2050 now, in order to "defuse the climate time bomb." The UN chief said that "humanity is on thin ice -- and that ice is melting fast".&nbsp;

Guterres described the sixth "synthesis report" from IPCC&nbsp;as "a survival guide for humanity".&nbsp;

In a video message coinciding with the latest report on climate change, Guterres said all parties must "hit the fast forward button" on net zero deadlines. He also urged emerging economies to reach the goal as close as possible to 2050.&nbsp;

He said rich countries should commit to achieving carbon neutrality as close as possible to 2040 and "aim to respect" the limit. &nbsp;

The UN report said the last eight years' record-breaking temperatures will figure among the coolest within three or four decades as global temperatures climb, even if planet-warming emissions drop quickly.&nbsp;

Friederike Otto, a climate scientist at Imperial College London and lead author of the UN's climate advisory panel said: "The warmest years we have experienced to date will be among the coolest within a generation."&nbsp;

Guterres said: "This is the moment for all G20 members to come together in a joint effort, pooling their resources and scientific capacities as well as their proven and affordable technologies through the public and private sectors to make carbon neutrality a reality by 2050."&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A crucial UN report has warned that the world will see its first full year with temperatures rising by 1.5 degree Celcius above pre-industrial levels in early 2030s.

A crucial UN report has warned that the world will see its first full year with temperatures rising by 1.5 degree Celcius above pre-industrial levels in early 2030s. Severe impacts on climate will be seen more quickly at lower levels of global warming than previously expected, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) said. IPCC released the final part of its mammoth sixth assessment report on Monday. The IPCC consists of the world's leading climate scientists, who have issued a "final warning" on the deteriorating climate crisis. The IPCC, an intergovernmental body of the UN charged with advancing scientific knowledge about man-made climate change, has prepared detailed assessment reports about climate change amid a continuous rise in greenhouse gas emissions which have started to cause visible and irrevocable damage to the planet earth. The report talks about causes, potential impacts and response options to tackle global warming and noted that only swift and drastic action can avert the situation. IPCC said there is also a 50-50 chance that "by 2030, global surface temperature in any individual year could exceed 1.5C" in the a report synthesising its major findings over the last six years. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said: "This report is a clarion call to massively fast-track climate efforts by every country and every sector and on every timeframe. Our world needs climate action on all fronts: everything, everywhere, all at once." A call to the wealthy countries Guterres also called on wealthy countries to move up their goals of achieving carbon neutrality as close as possible to 2040, mostly from 2050 now, in order to "defuse the climate time bomb." The UN chief said that "humanity is on thin ice -- and that ice is melting fast". Guterres described the sixth "synthesis report" from IPCC as "a survival guide for humanity". In a video message coinciding with the latest report on climate change, Guterres said all parties must "hit the fast forward button" on net zero deadlines. He also urged emerging economies to reach the goal as close as possible to 2050. He said rich countries should commit to achieving carbon neutrality as close as possible to 2040 and "aim to respect" the limit. The UN report said the last eight years' record-breaking temperatures will figure among the coolest within three or four decades as global temperatures climb, even if planet-warming emissions drop quickly. Friederike Otto, a climate scientist at Imperial College London and lead author of the UN's climate advisory panel said: "The warmest years we have experienced to date will be among the coolest within a generation." Guterres said: "This is the moment for all G20 members to come together in a joint effort, pooling their resources and scientific capacities as well as their proven and affordable technologies through the public and private sectors to make carbon neutrality a reality by 2050." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Final warning' over devastating climate impacts: UN report calls for urgent action

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned that the climate time bomb is ticking as he urged rich nations on Monday to slash emissions sooner after a new assessment from scientists said there was little time to lose in tackling climate change.

Climate time bomb is ticking, expect more floods, cyclones and droughts

A critical report on climate warned the world is set to cross the key 1.5°celsius global warming limit in about a decade. Is it too late?

UN chief says climate time bomb is ticking

Snow conditions in the alps have been very mixed this season, with unseasonably warm temperatures and low snowfall. So, if you are planning to visit the alps, Shivan Chanana tells you about the alternative activities which you can do in the absence of snow.

What can holiday goers do if there's no snow? | WION Climate Tracker

An Italy-based company is stepping up to replace pollution-causing diesel tractors with one that completely runs on methane, usually sourced from animal waste such as cow dung in a large farm.&nbsp;

Methane is the byproduct of almost every organic decomposition and accounts for about 20 per cent of global warming-causing emissions.&nbsp;

<h2>What is methane-run farm tractor like?</h2>

The tractor is reportedly dubbed New Holland T6. It weighs 21,000 pounds (or nearly 10 tonnes) and claims to have a 180 horsepower (hp) engine. Its 185 litre&nbsp;tank gives out 62 per cent less nitrous oxide and up to 15 per cent less carbon dioxide, Bloomberg reported.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/volkswagen-decides-on-canada-for-its-first-battery-plant-outside-europe-572005">Volkswagen picks minerals-rich Canada for setting up first battery plant outside Europe</a>

All of it is sourced from the manure of roughly 75 cows.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

Heavy-duty agriculture equipment emits nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide. They continuously emit a cloud of methane, which contributes to global warming at a rate 80 times more than carbon dioxide. While electric vehicles are coming up to solve the issue amid heightening climate change concerns, a need for 'alternative fuels' has been felt too.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Is Climate Litigation the way forward?

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-is-climate-litigation-the-way-forward-545216/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Electrification has a role…but it’s not likely to replace diesel," Chief Executive Officer of CNH, the Italy-based company that made New Holland T6, told Bloomberg. "But a medium-sized farm is going to produce more methane than it can use," CNH CEO Scott Wine further said.&nbsp;

<h2>Methane-powered tractor: Big costs a cause of concern</h2>

The T6 cost $203,000, about 30 per cent more than a typical diesel tractor.

However, the company claims that the customers can cover the huge costs in less than a year due to the cheap sourcing of methane fuel via cow manure refills.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

An Italy-based company is stepping up to replace pollution-causing diesel tractors with one that completely runs on methane, usually sourced from animal waste such as cow dung in a large farm.

An Italy-based company is stepping up to replace pollution-causing diesel tractors with one that completely runs on methane, usually sourced from animal waste such as cow dung in a large farm. Methane is the byproduct of almost every organic decomposition and accounts for about 20 per cent of global warming-causing emissions. What is methane-run farm tractor like? The tractor is reportedly dubbed New Holland T6. It weighs 21,000 pounds (or nearly 10 tonnes) and claims to have a 180 horsepower (hp) engine. Its 185 litre tank gives out 62 per cent less nitrous oxide and up to 15 per cent less carbon dioxide, Bloomberg reported. ALSO READ | Volkswagen picks minerals-rich Canada for setting up first battery plant outside Europe All of it is sourced from the manure of roughly 75 cows. What does it mean? Heavy-duty agriculture equipment emits nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide. They continuously emit a cloud of methane, which contributes to global warming at a rate 80 times more than carbon dioxide. While electric vehicles are coming up to solve the issue amid heightening climate change concerns, a need for 'alternative fuels' has been felt too. ALSO WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Is Climate Litigation the way forward? × "Electrification has a role…but it’s not likely to replace diesel," Chief Executive Officer of CNH, the Italy-based company that made New Holland T6, told Bloomberg. "But a medium-sized farm is going to produce more methane than it can use," CNH CEO Scott Wine further said. Methane-powered tractor: Big costs a cause of concern The T6 cost $203,000, about 30 per cent more than a typical diesel tractor. However, the company claims that the customers can cover the huge costs in less than a year due to the cheap sourcing of methane fuel via cow manure refills. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cow dung as fuel source? THIS tractor presents alternative to polluting diesel farm vehicles

In Global Round-Up by WION, we bring you news from around the world. In today's edition - The death toll rises to 6 in the landslide. Torrential rains caused by the passing of Cyclone Yaku in Peru caused landslides in several municipalities of the Lima region, authorities reported. Meanwhile a fright train derailed in US spilling 5,000 gallons of diesel.

Landslide death toll rises to 6 in Peru; U.S. fright train derails

The geology of brazil's volcanic trindade island has fascinated scientists for years. But the discovery of rocks made from plastic debris in this remote turtle refuge is sparking alarm as researchers say it's evidence that humans are influencing earth's geological cycle.

Brazilian researchers find 'terrifying' plastic rocks

The Joe Biden administration on Monday approved an Alaska oil project or the Willow Project, which intends for extensive oil drilling on the North Slope, and&nbsp;has sparked anger among environmentalists. The announcement comes a day after the administration, in a big conservation move, said that it would bar or limit drilling in some other areas of Alaska or the Arctic Ocean. The decision approved by Rep. Mary Peltola was hailed by the Alaska delegation, saying that the "people of Alaska were heard." US Senator Lisa Murkowski also applauded the move, saying, "We did it, Alaska!"

But what exactly is the Willow Project? Why are the environmentalists angry? Scroll to read the details:

What is the Willow Project?

Alaska's significant and long-lasting oil drilling project on the National Petroleum Reserve's North Slope a.k.a the 'Willow Project' was proposed by Conoco&nbsp;Phillips, which aims to produce up to 180,000 barrels of oil a day, about 1.5 per cent of the US total oil production, CNN reported.

Alaska Republican Dan Sullivan said this oil development could be one of the biggest and most important resource development projects in history.&nbsp;

The company proposed five drilling initiatives as part of the project. However, the US Bureau of Land Management approved three drill sites, which ConocoPhillips Alaska said was a viable option. The interior department added that the final approval reduces the project's drill pads by probably 40 per cent.&nbsp;

The company further agreed to give up its rights to about 68,000 acres in existing leaves within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. The move reduces the project's freshwater use and eliminates all infrastructure related to the two rejected drills.&nbsp;

Is Joe Biden in trouble?

As soon as US President Joe Biden approved Alaska's oil project, it turned&nbsp; environmentalists and many US Democrats in Congress against him, who said that the project&nbsp;is out of step with his goals, CBS News reported.&nbsp;

Environmentalists have argued that approval of such a project represents a "betrayal" by Biden and his administration, who promised during his 2020 election campaign that fighting climate change will be his top priority and ending all new oil and gas drilling on federal lands and to move to clear energy.&nbsp;

Environmental activists have launched a #StopWillowcampaign across all social media platforms, seeking to remind Biden of his pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.&nbsp;

Federal officials have claimed that an increase in domestic oil drilling would result in fewer net global emissions because it would decrease petroleum imports.&nbsp;

The latest review under the Biden administration received backlash over its inclusion of a suggestion that 50 per cent of Willow's net emission could be offset by planting more trees in national forests to capture and store carbon dioxide."

Who supports and opposes the oil project?

Other than state lawmakers who say that the project will increase employment, boost domestic production and lessen the country's dependency, a coalition of native groups in Alaska also supports the project. According to them, the project is a much-needed source of revenue in the region and funds services like education and healthcare.&nbsp;

However, some Alaska Natives living closer to the planned project raised their concerns about the health and environmental impacts of the development.&nbsp;

In a letter to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Nuiqsut Mayor Rosemary Ahtuangaruak and other officials said that the village will bear the consequences of the harmful project. The letter read, "We are at ground zero for the industrialisation of the Arctic.

The Joe Biden administration on Monday approved an Alaska oil project or the Willow Project, which intends for extensive oil drilling on the North Slope, and has sparked anger among environmentalists.

The Joe Biden administration on Monday approved an Alaska oil project or the Willow Project, which intends for extensive oil drilling on the North Slope, and has sparked anger among environmentalists. The announcement comes a day after the administration, in a big conservation move, said that it would bar or limit drilling in some other areas of Alaska or the Arctic Ocean. The decision approved by Rep. Mary Peltola was hailed by the Alaska delegation, saying that the "people of Alaska were heard." US Senator Lisa Murkowski also applauded the move, saying, "We did it, Alaska!" But what exactly is the Willow Project? Why are the environmentalists angry? Scroll to read the details: What is the Willow Project? Alaska's significant and long-lasting oil drilling project on the National Petroleum Reserve's North Slope a.k.a the 'Willow Project' was proposed by Conoco Phillips, which aims to produce up to 180,000 barrels of oil a day, about 1.5 per cent of the US total oil production, CNN reported. Alaska Republican Dan Sullivan said this oil development could be one of the biggest and most important resource development projects in history. The company proposed five drilling initiatives as part of the project. However, the US Bureau of Land Management approved three drill sites, which ConocoPhillips Alaska said was a viable option. The interior department added that the final approval reduces the project's drill pads by probably 40 per cent. The company further agreed to give up its rights to about 68,000 acres in existing leaves within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. The move reduces the project's freshwater use and eliminates all infrastructure related to the two rejected drills. Is Joe Biden in trouble? As soon as US President Joe Biden approved Alaska's oil project, it turned environmentalists and many US Democrats in Congress against him, who said that the project is out of step with his goals, CBS News reported. Environmentalists have argued that approval of such a project represents a "betrayal" by Biden and his administration, who promised during his 2020 election campaign that fighting climate change will be his top priority and ending all new oil and gas drilling on federal lands and to move to clear energy. Environmental activists have launched a #StopWillowcampaign across all social media platforms, seeking to remind Biden of his pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Federal officials have claimed that an increase in domestic oil drilling would result in fewer net global emissions because it would decrease petroleum imports. The latest review under the Biden administration received backlash over its inclusion of a suggestion that 50 per cent of Willow's net emission could be offset by planting more trees in national forests to capture and store carbon dioxide." Who supports and opposes the oil project? Other than state lawmakers who say that the project will increase employment, boost domestic production and lessen the country's dependency, a coalition of native groups in Alaska also supports the project. According to them, the project is a much-needed source of revenue in the region and funds services like education and healthcare. However, some Alaska Natives living closer to the planned project raised their concerns about the health and environmental impacts of the development. In a letter to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Nuiqsut Mayor Rosemary Ahtuangaruak and other officials said that the village will bear the consequences of the harmful project. The letter read, "We are at ground zero for the industrialisation of the Arctic.

#StopWillowCampaign: Biden Administration approves oil drilling project in Alaska. Here's all you need to know

Projects are in full swing to restore the Everglades the vast Wetlands at Florida's southern tip. This comes amid historic funding that increased this year. Efforts are being made to restore America's largest subtropical Wilderness whose unique ecosystem provides fresh water to some 9 million people and serves as a significant carbon sink due to its peat soils. Everglades the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. spanning 1.5 million acres is home to an abundant wildlife and supplies water to millions.

Will everglades ever return to their glory?

Climate change is causing successive years of drought, forcing rural families in the horn of Africa deeper into poverty and hunger, and that's according to the United Nations. In Kenya, women who would normally work in agriculture, are resorting to grueling labour to keep their children fed and in school. here's a report.

World of Africa: Women crush ballast to make ends meet

More than half of native species are believed to be in decline, and introduced species now make up the bulk of plants growing in the wild in Britain, according to the findings of a 20-year research presented on Wednesday.

The primary cause of change, according to the "Plant Atlas 2020" research conducted by the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland, has been a shift in land use, notably "the intensification of arable cultivation" (BSBI).

With volunteers providing over 26 million records, including 3,445 distinct species, the 20-year research is the most extensive ever conducted on UK wild flora.

The survey found that 1,692 of them were native to the UK and 1,753 were non-natives that people had either purposefully or unintentionally released into the environment.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/two-fathers-and-a-mice-scientists-make-eggs-from-male-cells-to-do-the-unthinkable-570255">Mice with two biological dads: Scientists do the unthinkable</a>

"This startling finding means that there are now more introduced plants growing in the wild in Britain than natives, with many originating from gardens and then spreading to establish self-sustaining populations," it added.

A comparison with research from the 1950s revealed that native plant species are estimated to have reduced by 53 per cent. Yet, it is projected that the number of recently imported species has grown by 58 per cent.

The research highlighted that the development of arable farming has caused "significant losses of several flora" related to such crops.

The National Farmers' Union (NFU) environment forum chair Richard Bramley said farmers were "committed to enhancing and improving our landscapes".

"In recent decades, farmers have made huge improvements in several areas that this report highlights. For example, more than 10,000 football pitches of habitat have been planted to benefit wildlife such as pollinators," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

More than half of native species are believed to be in decline, and introduced species now make up the bulk of plants growing in the wild in Britain, according to the findings of a 20-year research presented on Wednesday.

More than half of native species are believed to be in decline, and introduced species now make up the bulk of plants growing in the wild in Britain, according to the findings of a 20-year research presented on Wednesday. The primary cause of change, according to the "Plant Atlas 2020" research conducted by the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland, has been a shift in land use, notably "the intensification of arable cultivation" (BSBI). With volunteers providing over 26 million records, including 3,445 distinct species, the 20-year research is the most extensive ever conducted on UK wild flora. The survey found that 1,692 of them were native to the UK and 1,753 were non-natives that people had either purposefully or unintentionally released into the environment. ALSO READ | Mice with two biological dads: Scientists do the unthinkable "This startling finding means that there are now more introduced plants growing in the wild in Britain than natives, with many originating from gardens and then spreading to establish self-sustaining populations," it added. A comparison with research from the 1950s revealed that native plant species are estimated to have reduced by 53 per cent. Yet, it is projected that the number of recently imported species has grown by 58 per cent. The research highlighted that the development of arable farming has caused "significant losses of several flora" related to such crops. The National Farmers' Union (NFU) environment forum chair Richard Bramley said farmers were "committed to enhancing and improving our landscapes". "In recent decades, farmers have made huge improvements in several areas that this report highlights. For example, more than 10,000 football pitches of habitat have been planted to benefit wildlife such as pollinators," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

50% of Britain, Ireland’s native plants have diminished over 20 years: Study

World's oceans have more than 171 trillion pieces of plastic, a new study said, citing a "rapid and unprecedented" increase in plastic pollution in the oceans.&nbsp;

A team of international scientists analysed the samples collected over the&nbsp;course of four decades – between 1979 and 2019 – from the Antlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans as well as the Mediterranean Sea.&nbsp;

"Today's global abundance is estimated at approximately 82-358 trillion plastic particles weighing 1.1-4.9 million tonnes. We observed no clear detectable trend until 1990, a fluctuating but stagnant trend from then until 2005, and a rapid increase until the present," the study, published on Wednesday in the journal PLOS ONE, read. &nbsp;

<h2>Oceans' plastic waste crisis: What lies next?</h2>

Scientists warned that the rate at which plastics enter the oceans could increase by around 2.6 times between now and 2040 without immediate intervention. "This observed acceleration of plastic densities in the world's oceans, also reported for beaches around the globe, demands urgent international policy interventions," they wrote.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Can chemical recycling reduce plastic pollution?

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-can-chemical-recycling-reduce-plastic-pollution-528326/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Lisa Erdle, director of research and innovation at the 5 Gyres Institute and an author of the report, pointed out that only 9 per cent of global plastics are recycled each year. She said that once plastic gets into the ocean, it doesn't decompose but breaks down into tiny pieces. "These particles then are really not easily cleaned up, we're stuck with them," she told CNN.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/eating-drinking-and-breathing-for-years-scientists-find-microplastics-everywhere-493992">Eating, drinking and breathing for years: Scientists find microplastics everywhere</a>

"The ocean is a complex place. There are lots of ocean currents, there are changes over time due to weather and due to conditions on the ground," Erdle said.

<h2>North Atlantic sea most plastic polluted: Study</h2>

The researchers said that the highest concentration of ocean plastic is in the North Atlantic sea. But they also admitted that more data is still needed for areas including the Mediterranean Sea, the Indian Ocean and the South Atlantic and South Pacific to figure out the exact extent of the crisis.&nbsp;

"This research opened my eyes to how challenging plastic in the ocean is to measure and characterise and underscores the need for real solutions to the problem," Win Cowger, a research scientist at Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research in California and a study author, said in an official statement. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

World's oceans have more than 171 trillion pieces of plastic, a new study said, citing a "rapid and unprecedented" increase in plastic pollution in the oceans. A team of international scientists analysed the samples collected over the course of four decades – between 1979 and 2019 – from the Antlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans as well as the Mediterranean Sea.

World's oceans have more than 171 trillion pieces of plastic, a new study said, citing a "rapid and unprecedented" increase in plastic pollution in the oceans. A team of international scientists analysed the samples collected over the course of four decades – between 1979 and 2019 – from the Antlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans as well as the Mediterranean Sea. "Today's global abundance is estimated at approximately 82-358 trillion plastic particles weighing 1.1-4.9 million tonnes. We observed no clear detectable trend until 1990, a fluctuating but stagnant trend from then until 2005, and a rapid increase until the present," the study, published on Wednesday in the journal PLOS ONE, read. Oceans' plastic waste crisis: What lies next? Scientists warned that the rate at which plastics enter the oceans could increase by around 2.6 times between now and 2040 without immediate intervention. "This observed acceleration of plastic densities in the world's oceans, also reported for beaches around the globe, demands urgent international policy interventions," they wrote. ALSO WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Can chemical recycling reduce plastic pollution? × Lisa Erdle, director of research and innovation at the 5 Gyres Institute and an author of the report, pointed out that only 9 per cent of global plastics are recycled each year. She said that once plastic gets into the ocean, it doesn't decompose but breaks down into tiny pieces. "These particles then are really not easily cleaned up, we're stuck with them," she told CNN. ALSO READ | Eating, drinking and breathing for years: Scientists find microplastics everywhere "The ocean is a complex place. There are lots of ocean currents, there are changes over time due to weather and due to conditions on the ground," Erdle said. North Atlantic sea most plastic polluted: Study The researchers said that the highest concentration of ocean plastic is in the North Atlantic sea. But they also admitted that more data is still needed for areas including the Mediterranean Sea, the Indian Ocean and the South Atlantic and South Pacific to figure out the exact extent of the crisis. "This research opened my eyes to how challenging plastic in the ocean is to measure and characterise and underscores the need for real solutions to the problem," Win Cowger, a research scientist at Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research in California and a study author, said in an official statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Over 170 trillion plastic particles floating in oceans, North Atlantic sea most affected: Study

As a severe heatwave pushes temperatures in several regions including Sydney, Australian officials on Tuesday warned of a soaring risk of bushfires. Temperatures, as per Reuters, are rising to reach their highest levels in two years. Currently, Australia's most populous state of New South Wales (NSW) has 33 active fires, 12 of which are yet to be contained. Due to the fires, five public schools have been shut, and a total fire ban is in place across large parts of the state.

On Monday, many regions in NSW recorded their hottest day since January 2021. In some places, temperatures hit more than 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). On Tuesday, temperatures are forecasted to reach mid-to-high 30 degrees Celsius. Conditions are expected to ease starting Thursday.

However, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned that hot and dry conditions, accompanied by gusty winds, will elevate fire danger levels.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-hottest-february-since-1901-imd-shares-forecast-from-march-to-may-567303">India records hottest February since 1901; IMD shares forecast from March to May</a>

"People have been really thinking and looking at floods over the last few years, they haven't really been thinking about their fire preparation," said NSW Rural Fire Service inspector Ben Shepherd while speaking to Sky News.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-unveil-new-law-that-deports-asylum-seekers-to-as-of-yet-unspecified-safe-third-countries-569382">UK to unveil new law that deports asylum seekers to as of yet unspecified 'safe third countries'</a>

Since late 2020, Australia has been going through rain and flood-dominated La Nina weather phenomenon. As per a weather bureau prediction from last week, it is&nbsp;"likely near its end" and the nation through autumn should witness neutral conditions — neither La Nina nor its opposite, El Nino.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

As a severe heatwave pushes temperatures in several regions including Sydney, Australian officials on Tuesday warned of a soaring risk of bushfires. Temperatures, as per Reuters, are rising to reach their highest levels in two years.

As a severe heatwave pushes temperatures in several regions including Sydney, Australian officials on Tuesday warned of a soaring risk of bushfires. Temperatures, as per Reuters, are rising to reach their highest levels in two years. Currently, Australia's most populous state of New South Wales (NSW) has 33 active fires, 12 of which are yet to be contained. Due to the fires, five public schools have been shut, and a total fire ban is in place across large parts of the state. On Monday, many regions in NSW recorded their hottest day since January 2021. In some places, temperatures hit more than 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). On Tuesday, temperatures are forecasted to reach mid-to-high 30 degrees Celsius. Conditions are expected to ease starting Thursday. However, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned that hot and dry conditions, accompanied by gusty winds, will elevate fire danger levels. Also read | India records hottest February since 1901; IMD shares forecast from March to May "People have been really thinking and looking at floods over the last few years, they haven't really been thinking about their fire preparation," said NSW Rural Fire Service inspector Ben Shepherd while speaking to Sky News. Also read | UK to unveil new law that deports asylum seekers to as of yet unspecified 'safe third countries' Since late 2020, Australia has been going through rain and flood-dominated La Nina weather phenomenon. As per a weather bureau prediction from last week, it is "likely near its end" and the nation through autumn should witness neutral conditions — neither La Nina nor its opposite, El Nino. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia faces bush fire threat as temperatures reach two-year high of 40°C

Members of the climate activist group Extinction Rebellion from The Netherlands protested near Rembrandt's famous painting The Night Watch at Rijkmuseum in Amsterdam. The protesters drew attention to climate change and expressed their displeasure against the museum's partnership with airline KLM and bank ING

Two protesters from the group of ten held replica of the famous paintings. The replica depicted watchmen from the original artwork submerged in water, a nod to the group's slogan: "There is no art on a flooded planet"

"The science is clear, we can no longer escape it: the earth is warming up, the sea level is rising and the weather is becoming more and more extreme. It is obvious that this is due to the fossil industry, an industry that the Rijksmuseum is still sponsoring", 19-year-old protester Yara said,

The protesters were between 15 and 22 years of age. Climate slogans were written on their t-shirts. Parents and grandparents of some of the protesters stood nearby in support.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for Rijksmuseum told Dutch press agency ANP that the protest didn't cause any damage to The Night Watch and that the protesters were escorted outside without incident.

Rijksmuseum did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Members of the climate activist group Extinction Rebellion from The Netherlands protested near Rembrandt's famous painting The Night Watch at Rijkmuseum in Amsterdam.

Members of the climate activist group Extinction Rebellion from The Netherlands protested near Rembrandt's famous painting The Night Watch at Rijkmuseum in Amsterdam. The protesters drew attention to climate change and expressed their displeasure against the museum's partnership with airline KLM and bank ING Two protesters from the group of ten held replica of the famous paintings. The replica depicted watchmen from the original artwork submerged in water, a nod to the group's slogan: "There is no art on a flooded planet" "The science is clear, we can no longer escape it: the earth is warming up, the sea level is rising and the weather is becoming more and more extreme. It is obvious that this is due to the fossil industry, an industry that the Rijksmuseum is still sponsoring", 19-year-old protester Yara said, The protesters were between 15 and 22 years of age. Climate slogans were written on their t-shirts. Parents and grandparents of some of the protesters stood nearby in support. A spokesperson for Rijksmuseum told Dutch press agency ANP that the protest didn't cause any damage to The Night Watch and that the protesters were escorted outside without incident. Rijksmuseum did not immediately respond to requests for comment. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Members of Extinction Rebellion hold climate protest next to a Rembrandt 

United Nations Chief Antonio Guterres has slammed richer nations for climate catastrophes. Speaking at a summit in Doha for the least-developed countries, Guterres accused big economies for record-high greenhouse gas emissions leading to the disparity between fossil fuels giants with massive profits.

UN chief slams richer nations for climate change, says 'they continue to heat up our planet'

Over 15 years of discussions and five rounds of protracted UN-led discussions later, negotiators from more than 100 countries have finalised a treaty to protect biodiversity in the high seas. This UN treaty is a long-awaited step that, according to environmental groups, will help reverse marine biodiversity losses and ensure sustainable development. The legally binding pact was agreed upon in New York on Sunday, a day after the original deadline. "The ship has reached the shore," said the UN conference president, Rena Lee, after the final day of talks.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Plastic pollution threatens marine life

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-plastic-pollution-threatens-marine-life-sperm-whale-washes-ashore-in-hawaii-558604/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The final round of talks began on February 20, but dragged on due to several points of contention. Economic interests reportedly remained a major sticking point, with developing countries calling for a greater share of the spoils from the so-called ‘blue economy’.

Additionally, the talks were delayed by an agreement on the sharing of "marine genetic resources" used in industries, like biotechnology.&nbsp; 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coral-reefs-in-western-indian-ocean-face-extinction-by-2070-study-claims-434846">Coral reefs in western Indian Ocean face extinction by 2070, study claims</a> 
 
A&nbsp;framework to protect marine life in the regions outside national boundary waters — known as the high seas —&nbsp;had been in discussions for nearly 20 years, but previous efforts to reach an agreement had repeatedly stalled.&nbsp;

This treaty is seen as a crucial component of the "30 by 30 deal" agreed upon in Montreal in December of last year.&nbsp;

"30 by 30" refers to global efforts to bring 30 per cent of the world's land and sea under protection by the end of this decade.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-un-ocean-treaty-talks-resume-why-the-deal-to-protect-the-worlds-oceans-is-so-important-564112">Explained | UN ocean treaty talks resume: Why the deal to protect the world’s oceans is so important</a>

As per Greenpeace, to meet this&nbsp;target, about 11 million square kilometres or 4.2 million square miles of the ocean need to be protected every year until the end of this decade. Currently, very few of the high seas are under this protection.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Over 15 years of discussions and five rounds of protracted UN-led discussions later, negotiators from more than 100 countries have finalised a treaty to protect biodiversity in the high seas.

Over 15 years of discussions and five rounds of protracted UN-led discussions later, negotiators from more than 100 countries have finalised a treaty to protect biodiversity in the high seas. This UN treaty is a long-awaited step that, according to environmental groups, will help reverse marine biodiversity losses and ensure sustainable development. The legally binding pact was agreed upon in New York on Sunday, a day after the original deadline. "The ship has reached the shore," said the UN conference president, Rena Lee, after the final day of talks. Watch | WION Climate Tracker: Plastic pollution threatens marine life The final round of talks began on February 20, but dragged on due to several points of contention. Economic interests reportedly remained a major sticking point, with developing countries calling for a greater share of the spoils from the so-called ‘blue economy’. Additionally, the talks were delayed by an agreement on the sharing of "marine genetic resources" used in industries, like biotechnology. Also read | Coral reefs in western Indian Ocean face extinction by 2070, study claims A framework to protect marine life in the regions outside national boundary waters — known as the high seas — had been in discussions for nearly 20 years, but previous efforts to reach an agreement had repeatedly stalled. This treaty is seen as a crucial component of the "30 by 30 deal" agreed upon in Montreal in December of last year. "30 by 30" refers to global efforts to bring 30 per cent of the world's land and sea under protection by the end of this decade. Also read | Explained | UN ocean treaty talks resume: Why the deal to protect the world’s oceans is so important As per Greenpeace, to meet this target, about 11 million square kilometres or 4.2 million square miles of the ocean need to be protected every year until the end of this decade. Currently, very few of the high seas are under this protection. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

After 15 years of talks, over 100 nations agree on global treaty to protect marine life on high seas

climate-change

Climate Change, News on Climate Change, stories on Climate Change, articles on Climate Change, Climate Change stories at Wion, Climate Change news, Climate Change latest news