(Eagle News) — Scientist say evidence clearly supports the possibility of cutting global greenhouse gas emissions by half by 2030 but action needs to be taken now to make this a reality.

This was announced by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in a statement released April 4, 2022.

“Without immediate and deep emissions reductions across all sectors, limiting global warming to 1.5°C is beyond reach,” said the IPPC. However, according to the panel, there is increasing evidence of climate action that could be taken to significantly reduce gas emissions for future generations.

“We are at a crossroads. The decisions we make now can secure a liveable future. We have the
tools and know-how required to limit warming,” said IPCC Chair Hoesung Lee. “I am encouraged by
climate action being taken in many countries.”

Lee said among the steps that can be taken are policies, regulations and market instruments.

“If these are scaled up and applied more widely and equitably, they can support deep emissions reductions and stimulate innovation,” said Lee.

The panel calls on all sectors to help in cutting at least halve emissions by 2030 and said limiting global warming will require major transitions in the energy sector. This will involve a
substantial reduction in fossil fuel use, widespread electrification, improved energy efficiency, and
use of alternative fuels (such as hydrogen).

“Having the right policies, infrastructure and technology in place to enable changes to our lifestyles
and behaviour can result in a 40-70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This offers
significant untapped potential,” said IPCC Working Group III Co-Chair Priyadarshi Shukla. “The
evidence also shows that these lifestyle changes can improve our health and wellbeing.”

“It’s now or never, if we want to limit global warming to 1.5°C (2.7°F),” said IPCC
Working Group III Co-Chair Jim Skea.. “Without immediate and deep emissions reductions across all sectors, it will be impossible.”

According to scientists, reducing emissions in industry will involve using material more efficiently, reusing and recycling products and minimizing waste.

When it comes to cities and urban centers, lower energy consumption that could be encouraged by creating “walkable” cities, using electric powered vehicles and having enhanced carbon uptake and storage using nature are some recommendations given by the panel.

(Eagle News Service)