2024-11-11 04:30:00
This post is taken from the newsletter “Human warmth”sent every Tuesday at 12.30pm. Every week the journalist Nabil Wakim, who hosts the podcast of the same name, answers Internet users’ questions on the climate challenge. You can register for free by clicking here.
News on “human warmth”.
On the agenda. The first “Human Chaleur” Festival of Ideas will take place on Saturday 14 December and you are all welcome! I asked several podcast guests to come and share an essential idea for a successful transition on stage, so that we can collectively equip ourselves with an even more complete toolbox. You can take your seat on this page, at the Théâtre de la Ville in Paris, on Saturday 14th afternoon – or on video if you prefer.
Question of the week
“Thank you for your productions… a suggestion: don’t you want to use the expression “climate disruption” instead of “climate change”? I find that this word speaks best of what happens to us. » Question asked by Jean to chaud [email protected].
My answer: The climate scientists I spoke to prefer to use the terms “global warming” and “climate change,” which they consider more scientifically accurate. But to speak more broadly we can also talk about the “climate crisis”.
1/What are we talking about?
Simply put, our use of oil, gas and coal emits greenhouse gases that add to the atmosphere and increase the average temperature of the planet. To understand in detail how heating works, I recommend this series of infographics, created by my colleagues at Décoders.
I asked exactly the same question as Jean to the climatologist Valérie Masson-Delmotte in an episode of “Chaleur humaine” (which you can listen to here)
She replied: “I use global warming and climate change pretty interchangeably. The “warming” is due precisely to the fact that greenhouse gas emissions lead to an accumulation of heat in the climate machine. But the expression “climate change” is also relevant, because it is not simply a change in temperature but it is also, for example, an intensification of the water cycle, a rise in sea levels, so it helps to paint this picture more ample. »
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Climate Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good morning, and thank you for joining us today! With COP29 just around the corner in Azerbaijan, the world is once again turning its attention to the pressing issue of climate change. Our guest today is renowned climate scientist Dr. Elena Torres, an expert on fossil fuel consumption and its impact on our planet. Welcome, Dr. Torres!
Dr. Elena Torres (DET): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
TNE: Let’s dive right in. COP29 aims to address global warming predominantly caused by fossil fuel use. Given the backdrop of ongoing oil drilling near Baku, how crucial do you think this summit will be in paving the path for climate action?
DET: This summit is critical. As we’re seeing, the need to transition away from fossil fuels is becoming more urgent than ever. The fact that Azerbaijan, a major oil producer, is hosting the conference presents a unique challenge but also an opportunity. It’s a chance for nations to commit to more sustainable practices while facing the realities of oil dependence.
TNE: That’s an interesting perspective. In your opinion, what should be the primary focus for countries attending COP29? Are there specific goals that they must prioritize?
DET: Absolutely. The primary focus should be on concrete commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Countries should prioritize phasing out fossil fuel subsidies, investing in renewable energy, and creating adaptation strategies for communities affected by climate disruption. By setting specific targets, we can hold nations accountable for their commitments.
TNE: Speaking of terminology, a reader recently suggested that terms like ”climate disruption” might better encapsulate the issues we face compared to “climate change.” What are your thoughts on this?
DET: That’s a fascinating point. While “climate change” and “global warming” are the scientifically accepted terms, using “climate disruption” conveys the urgency and severity of our current situation. It highlights how deeply our climate has been affected, making it more relatable for the average person. Nonetheless, a unified approach in terminology could help in mobilizing global action, so discussions like this are essential.
TNE: You mentioned adaptation strategies. What are some practical measures that countries can take to adapt to the current and anticipated impacts of climate disruption?
DET: Countries can implement various adaptation measures, such as enhancing infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events, protecting ecosystems that act as buffers against climate impacts, and developing early warning systems for disasters. Additionally, investing in climate-resilient agriculture is critical, as food security is often one of the first sectors affected.
TNE: As a scientist, what gives you hope when you look at the current state of climate action globally?
DET: I see a growing awareness and urgency in communities, particularly among younger generations. The climate movement is gaining momentum, with more people advocating for sustainable practices and demanding accountability from leaders. Events like COP29 bring together diverse voices and perspectives, fostering collaboration that I believe is essential for meaningful change.
TNE: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Torres. Before we conclude, is there one piece of advice you would give to individuals concerned about climate disruption?
DET: Absolutely! Individuals can make a significant impact by reducing their carbon footprints: choose public transport, support renewable energy initiatives, and advocate for policies that prioritize sustainability. Moreover, educating ourselves and others about climate issues is essential; every small action contributes to the larger movement for change.
TNE: Wise words! Thank you so much for your time, Dr. Torres. We look forward to seeing how the discussions at COP29 unfold.
DET: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for impactful outcomes!
TNE: And thank you to our readers for tuning in! Stay engaged with these important global conversations as we all strive for a better future.
