"Climate Scientists Express Horror and Resentment as Global Heatwaves Unfold"

Leading climate scientists share their deep sadness, horror, and resentment as devastating heatwaves grip much of the northern hemisphere. The record-breaking temperatures and extreme climate events align with scientists' projections, but they still find the ferocity of the impacts surprising and alarming. The experts warn that even a 1.2°C global warming increase is proving unsafe, and they emphasize the urgent need for collective action to combat climate change.

(Vox)

The fossil fuel industry's influence and political leaders' failure to control it exacerbate the situation, as policies like offsetting and gas expansion perpetuate environmental damage. Climate scientists are grappling with how to contribute most effectively during this escalating crisis, balancing their research careers with warning the public about the imminent dangers. As the current heatwaves continue, experts express frustration with the slow pace of policy action and the approval of new fossil fuel extraction projects in Australia. They highlight the importance of adapting to the new reality of climate extremes and call for urgent measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and implement large-scale climate adaptation programs.

The scientists reflect on historical efforts to raise awareness of climate change and express concern about the needless environmental damage and human suffering caused by the lack of concerted action from politicians, business leaders, and public figures. They hope that the unprecedented climate extremes witnessed in 2023 will serve as a wake-up call and encourage meaningful action to address the crisis.While scientists acknowledge that some changes are already underway, they stress that much worse conditions are yet to come, affecting ecosystems, water availability, human health, infrastructure, and supply chains. The experts urge for a rational and comprehensive approach, emphasizing the importance of reducing emissions rapidly and implementing climate adaptation strategies to minimize the impacts that are already inevitable.