In 2024, global average temperatures reached a significant milestone, surpassing 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for the first time, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service.

This alarming temperature rise underscores the escalating impacts of climate change, although it remains within the bounds of the Paris Agreement's long-term threshold.

The record-breaking heatwaves, wildfires, and extreme weather events experienced last year were largely driven by a potent El Niño and human-induced warming, with Europe and Asia being particularly hard hit.

On July 10, 2024, a staggering 44% of the globe was affected by severe heat stress, reflecting widespread climate distress.

Increased atmospheric moisture, a consequence of rising temperatures, led to devastating floods, notably impacting Valencia, Spain.

Scientists caution that even minor increases in temperature can lead to irreversible damage, including the potential loss of ice sheets.

To combat prolonged warming and mitigate the effects of climate extremes, urgent action is essential to reduce emissions and adapt to the changing climate.