United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on countries to address the impacts of extreme heat fueled by climate change, urging a shift away from fossil fuels. Guterres warned that billions of people are experiencing record-high temperatures, leading to economic instability, social inequalities, and increased mortality. This comes as the world experienced its hottest day on record, with each month since June ranking as the warmest on record since 1940.
The effects of climate change are intensifying, leading to extreme weather patterns such as droughts, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. Guterres emphasized the need for countries to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels to combat the climate crisis. He called on leaders, especially those in the G20 countries, to take action quickly and fairly to phase out fossil fuels.
The International Labor Organization reported that over 2.4 billion people, or 70% of the global workforce, are at high risk of extreme heat, with Africa and Arab states particularly vulnerable. Heat-related workplace injuries are on the rise, with nearly 23 million injuries and 19,000 deaths annually attributed to excessive heat. Climate scientists have highlighted the urgent need to stop burning fossil fuels and reach net-zero emissions to prevent further warming.
As extreme heat continues to threaten vulnerable communities worldwide, Guterres’s call for action underscores the urgent need for countries to prioritize climate action and transition to cleaner, sustainable energy sources. By addressing the root causes of climate change, countries can work towards a more sustainable future for all.
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