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As the world faces escalating climate threats, the head of the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has stressed the urgent need for global action, highlighting the potential of new technologies like satellites and artificial intelligence (AI) to combat the climate crisis. With alarming predictions indicating a possible global temperature rise of 3°C above pre-industrial levels this century, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo emphasized that innovation is crucial in addressing this pressing issue.

“The evidence is clear: we are significantly off track in achieving global climate targets. Last year was the hottest on record, and the first eight months of 2024 are also breaking records,” Saulo stated. She urged countries to take immediate steps to support sustainable development, climate initiatives, and disaster risk reduction, noting that “the choices we make today could determine whether we face future breakdowns or breakthroughs.”

A Global Emergency

Saulo's remarks come in the wake of devastating weather events worldwide, including severe wildfires in Latin America and Portugal, as well as catastrophic flooding across central Europe and Southeast Asia. These extreme weather patterns, intensified by climate change, continue to disrupt lives and economies globally.

In light of these challenges, Saulo highlighted the untapped potential of scientific advancements and technological innovations to enhance disaster resilience and adaptation efforts. She pointed out how AI and machine learning are revolutionizing weather forecasting, making it faster, more affordable, and accessible to all nations.

Harnessing Technological Potential

Satellite technology has played a vital role in advancing climate science, improving monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon storage. Saulo also mentioned innovative tools such as “digital twins”—virtual models of physical systems—that can provide critical insights for managing natural resources, alongside virtual reality simulations that enhance disaster preparedness.

However, Saulo cautioned that technology alone is insufficient. “We must foster collaboration among nations to share expertise and experiences,” she emphasized, ahead of the upcoming Summit of the Future at UN headquarters in New York on September 22-23. This summit aims to ensure that the benefits of science and technology are accessible to all, which is essential for achieving global climate goals, including the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Urgent Action Required

The latest data from the UN-partnered United in Science report highlights a concerning trend: there is an 86% likelihood that at least one year in the next five will surpass 2023 as the warmest year on record. Furthermore, there is an 80% chance that global temperatures will temporarily exceed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels within the same period.

Despite these troubling forecasts, some progress has been made in curbing greenhouse gas emissions. Projections for emissions increases from 2015 to 2030 have improved—from a 16% rise to a more manageable 3%—but significant gaps remain. The report warns that if current policies remain unchanged, there is a 66% probability that global warming could reach 3°C this century.