50 %
Global carbon dioxide emissions have risen by almost 50% since 1990
60 %
Energy accounts for around 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions
5 %
when the temperature rises by 1°C, cereal production drops by around 5%.
The challenges
Climate change now affects every country on every continent. It’s disrupting national economies and affecting lives, costing people, communities and countries today and even more tomorrow. Weather patterns are changing, sea levels are rising, weather patterns are becoming more extreme, and greenhouse gas emissions are now at their highest levels in history. Without action, the world’s average surface temperature is set to exceed 3 degrees centigrade this century. The poorest and most vulnerable people are the hardest hit.
Solutions
By giving priority to renewable energies, we are reducing our carbon footprint and cutting the share of fossil fuels responsible for climate change. For example,
Improving the resilience of electricity systems will thus help the most disadvantaged populations to cope with the effects of extreme weather disasters, which are unfortunately likely to recur. A good example of this is the installation of solar power systems that can withstand strong winds and be sheltered in the event of a cyclone. Similarly, to cope with water stress, we are installing solar pumps to draw water from deeper underground.
Each time, we have mobilized to restore access to electricity, provide light and make buildings safe, alongside other international solidarity players. And each time, we have carried out reconstruction projects to help the affected areas build up their resilience.
