IPCC working group II co-chair Hans-Otto Pörtner said the impacts of human-induced intensification of tropical cyclones, sea level rise and heavy rainfall has resulted in increased losses and damages. These are magnified in cities, where more than half the world’s population lives.
Nature’s crucial services are at risk in a warming world, including coastal protection, pollination, water filtration and clean air. According to the scientists, current projections imply that at a global warming level of 2°C by 2100, up to 18% of all species on land will be at high risk of going extinct.
The report identifies the overlapping problems as limited access to water, sanitation and health services; climate-sensitive livelihoods, high levels of poverty, weak leadership, lack of funding and lack of accountability and trust in government. United Nations secretary-general António Guterres described the report as “an atlas of human suffering” and a “damning indictment of failed climate leadership”.