OHPA Weekly Newsletter #2
Week of April 19th 2024
Welcome to the second issue of The Open Society Hub for the Politics of the Anthropocene weekly newsletter.
Climate impacts set to cut 2050 global GDP by nearly a fifth
This article explores the findings of a report indicating that climate change will have profound economic consequences, with global GDP projected to decrease by almost 20% by 2050 due to climate-related factors. These factors encompass a wide range of impacts, including more frequent and severe extreme weather events, sea level rise, and disruptions to key sectors such as agriculture and infrastructure. The report underscores the urgent need for robust measures to address climate change, emphasizing the importance of both mitigation efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation strategies to cope with the inevitable effects of a changing climate. Moreover, it suggests that investing in climate resilience and transitioning to sustainable practices could help mitigate some of the economic losses predicted in the coming decades.
Source: France 24
Billions more in overseas aid needed to avert climate disaster, say economists
The specific proposals presented during the Spring Summit of the World Bank encompass significant demands for augmented financial support towards climate-related initiatives in developing nations, as the Guardian reports. They discuss the potential sources of this additional aid, such as contributions from wealthy nations, multilateral development banks, and private sector investments. Furthermore, the article explores the broader implications of such financial commitments, including their potential to accelerate progress towards global climate goals and strengthen international cooperation on climate action. Additionally, it examines the challenges and opportunities associated with scaling up overseas aid for climate initiatives, emphasizing the importance of ensuring transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in the use of these funds.
Source: The Guardian
‘It’s too wet’: UK food security at risk because of record rain, farmers warn
The Financial Time shows us the consequences of climate changes in our daily lives by discussing the challenges faced by UK farmers due to extreme weather conditions. These conditions have led to difficulties, which has impacted both their finances and the country's food security. As a result, supermarkets may need to seek produce from abroad, which could affect domestic growers' profitability. Furthermore, the impact of Brexit-related changes in trading dynamics and the absence of EU subsidies has added pressure on UK farmers, prompting some to turn to environmental schemes for support. However, the transition to more sustainable farming practices raises concerns about maintaining yields and profitability. The article emphasises the need for government support to address these challenges and ensure the resilience of the agricultural sector.
Source: FT
Al Gore Thinks Trump Will Lose and Climate Activists Will Triumph
The article from The New York Times focuses on Al Gore's continued activism in the fight against climate change. It discusses latest initiatives of the 45th Vice President of the US, including his engagement with political leaders, businesses, and grassroots organizations to promote sustainability and combat climate change. Despite facing skepticism and challenges along the way, Gore remains committed to his mission and continues to advocate for policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources. Mr. Gore provided insight into why he was not surprised that major oil and gas companies have revised their commitments to decarbonize. He also expressed his belief that former President Donald J. Trump would not be elected to return to the White House.
Source: The New York Times
Climate change: Deadly African heatwave 'impossible' without warming
Results from a recent study show that plants may play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing more carbon dioxide than previously estimated. The research indicates that plants absorb 31% more CO2 than current models account for, primarily due to their ability to absorb the gas through microscopic pores on their leaves. This discovery could have significant implications for climate change projections and strategies for carbon sequestration. The study highlights the importance of accurately accounting for the role of vegetation in global carbon cycles and underscores the potential for natural ecosystems to help offset rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere.
Source: BBC
We also encourage you to read Katarína Grácová’s Symposium Report on Energy / City Relations, hosted by the European Humanities University in Vilnius, Lithuania.
See the Joint OHPA and CEU’s Department of Environmental Sciences and Policy Seminar by Dr. Anke Schaffartzik on ‘What has changed? Society-nature relations in the Anthropocene’.
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