How the Paris Agreement Could Help India Enjoy Cooler Summers: A Path to Fewer Hot Days

New research highlights the impact of climate action on heatwaves. If countries stick to their emission-reduction promises from the 2015 Paris Agreement, India could see 30 fewer extremely hot days each year. Globally, this could mean 57 fewer hot days. However, experts still warn that we need to act faster.

A study by Climate Central and World Weather Attribution says the Paris Agreement, which marks its 10th anniversary this year, is guiding us toward a safer climate. Yet, the current efforts are simply not enough. Even with a 2.6 degrees Celsius increase, future generations will face serious heat, health risks, and greater inequality if fossil fuel reliance continues.

At a 4 degrees Celsius rise, which scientists initially projected, we’d experience an average of 114 hot days each year. By limiting warming to 2.6 degrees Celsius, that average could drop by 57 days. Countries like Kenya might see 82 fewer hot days, while Brazil could see 69 less.

Professor Friederike Otto from Imperial College London stresses the importance of stronger policies to phase out fossil fuels. She emphasizes that every fraction of a degree matters, impacting millions of lives. It’s essential for political leaders to prioritize the Paris Agreement, as it protects human rights.

Since 2015, just a slight increase of 0.3 degrees Celsius has resulted in 11 more hot days each year globally. Heatwaves have become twice as likely in countries like India and Pakistan and up to ten times more likely in areas like the Amazon. The World Meteorological Organization reported a concerning rise in global carbon dioxide levels—3.5 parts per million, the highest increase since records began in 1957.

While some countries have made progress with early warning systems and heat action plans, many parts of Africa and Latin America remain vulnerable. Joyce Kimutai, also from Imperial College London, points out that developed nations must lead the charge in cutting emissions and increasing adaptation efforts.

As Bernadette Woods Placky from Climate Central notes, collaborative action can fast-track emission reductions. The most effective way to protect ourselves from extreme heat is to quickly move away from coal, oil, and gas.

This research underscores the urgency of collective climate action. It shows that while the Paris Agreement is beneficial, we must act decisively and swiftly to safeguard our planet and future generations.

For more on this vital topic, check out Climate Central and World Weather Attribution.

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global warming, Paris agreement, climate change, global warming, emissions, heat, coal, gas, fossil fuels