UN warns world could exceed critical warming thresholds without urgent climate action

The United Nations reports that the world is on track to exceed the 1.5°C warming target, with devastating impacts expected unless countries implement promised climate policies.

Seth Borenstein reports for The Associated Press.

In short:

• Current global emissions put the planet on a path to reach 3.1°C warming by 2100, far beyond the 1.5°C target of the Paris Agreement.
• Even if all nations meet their climate pledges, warming could still reach 2.6°C, threatening extreme weather and resource scarcity.
• The UN urges countries, especially major emitters, to take immediate, large-scale actions to reduce carbon emissions and meet climate goals.

Key quote:

“We’re playing with fire, but there can be no more playing for time.”

— Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General

Why this matters:

If countries fail to curb emissions drastically, the world could face severe climate impacts by mid-century, including more frequent and intense storms, wildfires and droughts. These changes threaten ecosystems, infrastructure and global public health, making climate action urgent.

Learn more: Global warming predictions exceed critical thresholds