Chapter 10: Problem 16

Compared to preindustrial times, how much have we already warmed, and what is the Paris Agreement's target for warming? How are we currently doing with regard to meeting this goal (not exceeding this target)?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The global average temperature has already warmed by approximately 1.2°C (2.16°F) compared to preindustrial times. The Paris Agreement's target is to limit global average temperature increase to well below 2°C (3.6°F) above preindustrial levels, ideally limiting it to 1.5°C (2.7°F). However, current efforts and progress are not sufficient to meet these targets, and more aggressive and coordinated actions are needed to mitigate climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.

Step by step solution

Study the latest scientific data on global warming

First, we need to gather information on global warming compared to preindustrial times. Generally, the baseline is considered the late 19th century (around 1880).

Determine the Paris Agreement's target for warming

Next, we need to look at the Paris Agreement and its goals, which were set to limit global warming.

Analyze our current performance regarding meeting the target

Finally, we need to compare current global warming with the Paris Agreement's target and determine whether we are on track to meet it. Now, let's answer the questions based on the available data:

Comparison of current warming to preindustrial times

According to the NOAA and IPCC reports, as of 2021, the global average temperature has increased by approximately 1.2°C (2.16°F) compared to preindustrial times (late 19th century).

The Paris Agreement's target for warming

The Paris Agreement, signed in 2016 by 196 countries, aims to hold the increase in global average temperature to well below 2°C (3.6°F) above preindustrial levels. More ambitiously, it also seeks to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C (2.7°F) above preindustrial levels.

Current progress towards meeting the Paris Agreement's target

Despite the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and switch to renewable energy, the current trajectory suggests that the 1.5°C target is at risk of being exceeded. The progress varies among different countries, but overall, we are not on track to meet the set goals of the Paris Agreement. To achieve the target, more aggressive and coordinated efforts are needed to mitigate climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.

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Compared to preindustrial times, how much have we already warmed, and what is the Paris Agreement's target for warming? How are we currently doing with regard to meeting this goal (not exceeding this target)?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Study the latest scientific data on global warming

Determine the Paris Agreement's target for warming

Analyze our current performance regarding meeting the target

Comparison of current warming to preindustrial times

The Paris Agreement's target for warming

Current progress towards meeting the Paris Agreement's target

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