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Snapshot 3:Tue, May 20, 2025 4:37:12 PM GMT last edited by Vandita

Study: Ice Sheet Melt Unstoppable Even at 1.5°C Climate Target

Study: Ice Sheet Melt Unstoppable Even at 1.5C5°C Climate Target

Study: Ice Sheet Melt Unstoppable Even at 1.5°C Climate Target
Above: Greenland ice sheet. Image credit: Unsplash

The Spin

WhileThe thecurrent situationglobal isclimate serious,target focusing on tipping points can distract from the fact that every fraction of a1.5°C degreeis ofdangerously warminginadequate avoidedfor mattersprotecting significantly.coastal The 1communities.5C targetToday's remainsice crucialloss asfar itexceeds wouldprevious stillmodel allowpredictions, moreindicating timethe forworld adaptationis andalready reducewitnessing the rateunfolding of seaworst-case levelscenarios. riseWithout comparedimmediate toand higherdrastic temperatureaction scenarios.to Continuedreduce technologicaltemperatures andbelow infrastructurecurrent developmentlevels, couldcoastal helpcities coastalface communitiesinevitable adaptinundation toand moderatemassive risespopulation displacement.

While the situation is serious, focusing on tipping points can distract from the fact that every fraction of a degree of warming avoided matters significantly. The 1.5°C target remains crucial as it would still allow more time for adaptation and reduce the rate of sea level rise compared to higher temperature scenarios. Continued technological and infrastructure development could help coastal communities adapt to moderate rises.

Metaculus Prediction

There's a 50% chance that sea level will rise 586 millimeters in 2100, according to the Metaculus prediction community.


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All rights reserved.

Version 6.18.0