CCAG response to extreme weather in the US, Canada and parts of Europe
Extreme weather consisting of heatwaves, droughts and potential flash flooding is currently hitting the US, Canada and parts of Europe.
Professor Dr Johan Rockström, Potsdam University and member of the CCAG said:
“Climate change is happening now -- and the time to act is now. All citizens in the world need to understand that we face an emergency.
“We are starting to feel the damage, the pain, the real suffering among communities not only in vulnerable countries, but also in more developed parts of the world, as we've seen with the heatwaves in British Columbia and Canada, and in western parts of California and the US.
“Staying below 2 degrees Celsius of global warming is not a political choice - it is a scientific necessity. Go beyond 2 degrees Celsius and we start having very major impacts on economies, health and people. The heatwaves we are seeing, as well as the extreme droughts, floods, forest fires and changes in disease patterns, are a forewarning of these impacts. To avoid such a reality, we must make a fundamental change in our relationship to the planet, starting with deep and rapid cuts in emissions.”
Notes to editors
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About CCAG
CCAG is an independent group of world-leading scientists which reflects a wide range of academic disciplines and indigenous knowledge, comprising 15 experts from 11 nations. It includes leading authorities in climate science, carbon emissions, energy, environment, and natural resources. Some of the members also participate in governmental advisory groups. Its function is complementary, not an alternative, to these other roles. It will look at in-depth policy and financial issues, including ones not currently on governmental agendas. All scientists have agreed to give up their time at no cost.
Virtual monthly meetings will be held on the final Thursday of every month at 12:00 BST and streamed via Youtube, Facebook and Twitter. This will be accompanied by an associated report, circulated to press beforehand alongside the press release. To keep up to date with the group, visit ccag.earth or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Youtube.