Climate in Crisis: Record Heat, Extreme Weather, and a Failed Plastic Treaty

The climate crisis is no longer a future threat—it's here now. 2024 was confirmed as the hottest year on record, with global temperatures a staggering 1.6°C above pre-industrial levels. This isn't just a number; it's the force behind increasingly intense hurricanes, devastating floods, prolonged droughts, and uncontrollable wildfires that are disrupting supply chains and jeopardizing our access to food and water.

The planet's ecosystems are under immense pressure. We're losing our forests at an alarming rate, drowning in plastic pollution, and experiencing a critical loss of biodiversity. These challenges were highlighted by the failure to finalize a global plastic waste treaty in 2024, pushing action to at least 2025.

The stakes are higher than ever. To avert a greater catastrophe, the world needs to prioritize climate adaptation and mitigation. All eyes are on the upcoming COP 30 in Brazil for ambitious new commitments, but progress is slow, often hampered by ongoing geopolitical tensions. The time for decisive action is now.