Greenhouse gas concentrations are at unprecedented levels, driving future temperature increases. The emissions gap between our climate aspirations and reality remains significant. According to the United in Science report, current policies are likely to result in a 3°C rise in global temperatures this century.
Despite these daunting prospects, the report provides grounds for hope. Advances in science and technology are emerging as crucial tools for climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development.
THE URGENT NEED FOR ACTION
The United in Science report stresses the need for immediate and ambitious action to support climate goals. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo emphasizes that the decisions we make today will determine whether we face a future breakdown or achieve a breakthrough to a better world.
TRANSFORMATIVE TECHNOLOGIES: AI AND MACHINE LEARNING
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are revolutionizing weather forecasting. These technologies make forecasting faster, cheaper, and more accessible. AI/ML models, trained on extensive datasets, offer improved predictions for hazardous events like tropical cyclones and El Niño/La Niña phenomena.
- Opportunities and Challenges: While AI/ML presents immense potential, challenges remain. Data quality and availability are issues. Current models do not account for complex variables related to oceans, land, and the carbon cycle.
- The Need for Strong Governance: Effective global governance is essential to ensure AI/ML technologies benefit everyone. Enhanced transparency and responsible use standards are crucial for building trust.
SPACE-BASED EARTH OBSERVATIONS: EXPANDING FRONTIERS
Space-based Earth observations have seen remarkable advancements. High-resolution and frequent observations are vital for weather forecasting, climate prediction, and environmental monitoring.
- Innovations and Challenges: Public-private partnerships are key to leveraging space-based observations. However, challenges such as gaps in measuring critical variables and data accessibility persist, especially for developing countries.
- International Collaboration: Strengthening international collaboration and governance frameworks is necessary to maximize the potential of space-based Earth observations.
BRIDGING VIRTUAL AND PHYSICAL WORLDS: IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGIES
Immersive technologies, including digital twins, virtual reality, and the metaverse, offer transformative solutions for water and land management. These technologies provide interactive, data-driven insights for managing resources and predicting environmental events.
- Enhancing Decision-Making: Digital twins simulate physical objects or systems, while the metaverse integrates virtual worlds for immersive experiences. These tools improve decision-making and stakeholder engagement.
- Addressing Challenges: Data availability, sustainable funding, and public trust are significant challenges. Effective governance and international cooperation are crucial for adopting these innovations.
TRANSDISCIPLINARY APPROACHES: UNITING KNOWLEDGE FOR SOLUTIONS
Addressing global challenges like climate change and disaster risk requires a transdisciplinary approach. This approach integrates diverse knowledge from natural and social sciences, policy, and local communities.
- Benefits of a Transdisciplinary Approach: Engaging scientists, policymakers, practitioners, and local communities provides a comprehensive understanding of issues. It also strengthens trust in institutions and enhances the relevance of solutions.
- Differences from Multidisciplinary Approaches: Unlike multidisciplinary approaches, where experts work separately, transdisciplinary approaches involve collaborative problem-solving across various fields.
THE ROLE OF MULTI-HAZARD EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS
Multi-hazard early warning systems (MHEWS) are critical for protecting lives and property. Countries with limited MHEWS coverage experience significantly higher disaster-related mortality rates.
- Progress and Gaps: More than half of the world’s countries now have MHEWS. However, significant gaps remain, highlighting the need for improved coverage and effectiveness.
- The EW4All Initiative: The Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative aims to ensure global protection from hazardous weather and climate events by 2027. This initiative underscores the importance of integrating science, technology, and transdisciplinary approaches.
MOVING FORWARD: SCALING UP ACTION
To achieve the goals of EW4All, innovation in science and technology is crucial. AI, multi-channel communication platforms, and citizen science will play pivotal roles in scaling up action.
- Harnessing Innovation: Leveraging advancements in AI, digital tools, and international collaboration will be key to ensuring early warning systems are effective and widely implemented.
The United in Science report highlights the urgent need for coordinated action to address climate change and sustainable development challenges. By embracing technological advancements and a collaborative approach, we can pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.