We’re in uncharted territory

CLIMATE temperature records are tumbling, leaving planet Earth in uncharted territory.

Scientists are understandably worried at the speed at which global warming is advancing. Ocean temperatures are higher than ever. Antarctic sea ice is melting just as fast. Heatwaves are becoming increasingly dan gerous.

The cause of global warming is the burn ing of fossil fuels. Add into the equa tion the heat generated by the first El Niño since 2018 ( a warming natural weather system) and, to coin a fa mous quotation, HOUSTON WE HAVE A PROBLEM!

● Last month was the hottest on record

● The average global temperature topped 17C for the first time on July 4

● The Pacific and Atlantic oceans in the last three months have recorded higher temperatures since Met Office records began in 1850. Extra heat trapped by the buildup of greenhouse gases has gone into warming the ocean’s surface

● Recorded heatwaves are more frequent, hotter, and longer lasting I have said it before, and without doubt will have to say many times more, that unless we make dramatic reductions to greenhouse gas emissions, temperatures will continue to rise. We do not have the resolve or the available technologies available to cut our emissions. Runaway warming and climate collapse alarm bells are ringing.

ADMIT YOUR FAILURES

So says the president of this year’s COP 28 conference, Sultan Al Jaber. Ironically he is the head of the UAE’s state oil company. That’s enough in itself to spark another debate.

How can the head of one of the world’s largest oil producers host a conference aimed at getting the world’s leaders to commit to saving the planet?

Despite the blatant hypocrisy in this, the message is bang on.

Governments do need a proper ‘kick up the backside’.

I remain unconvinced that the boot is on the right foot to make this happen. His argument is that only when the world has enough renewable energy can the production of oil, gas and coal be reduced. Does anyone else see a conflict of interest here ?!?!