Earlier this week, a coalition of 24 organizations brought attention to the damaging impact of fossil fuels on our climate during a submission to the UN. Among the groups were Amnesty International, Oxfam, and the Center for International Environmental Law. They all stressed a fundamental truth: the use of fossil fuels is a key driver of climate harm.
Recent data highlights that from 2015 to 2019, carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels rose by 4.6%. This spike is responsible for approximately two-thirds of annual global greenhouse gas emissions. Decades of research confirm that the extraction and consumption of fossil fuels are the biggest contributors to carbon emissions, which in turn are pushing global temperatures higher. This alarming trend threatens lives and livelihoods worldwide.
The organizations also pointed out a troubling connection between fossil fuel use, militarization, and human rights abuses. The fossil fuel industry often fuels conflicts, as nations and corporations vie for control. This can lead to significant environmental destruction and human suffering, especially in regions already facing the brunt of climate change.
A striking inequality exists in how countries prioritize spending. For every dollar allocated to climate action, the Global North countries invest 30 times more in military spending. This highlights a failure to address the historical climate debt owed to the Global South.
Additionally, the groups emphasized the need for accountability and remediation for those harmed by climate change. According to principles established by the UN, those most responsible for climate damage should help fund recovery efforts.
In recent months, calls for climate justice have grown louder. Over 360 organizations recently urged the European Union to reject policies that could undermine sustainability laws. Meanwhile, the U.S.’s decision to withdraw from the UN climate damage fund drew criticism from activists. They insist that the U.S. must take responsibility for its major role in global climate damage.
As we move forward, it’s clear that addressing these issues requires urgent action. The world must confront the realities of fossil fuel dependency, militarization, and the imperative to protect human rights as we tackle the climate crisis.
For more detailed information, you can explore the latest IPCC report.
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