Kigali-A significant international science conference has issued an urgent call to address climate change, highlighting it as one of the greatest challenges in human history.
According to a new release by World Meteorological Organization, the Open Science Conference gathered over 1,400 participants, including scientists, politicians, policymakers, and civil society representatives. The consensus was clear: the opportunity for meaningful action against climate change is dwindling rapidly, as its effects are being experienced ubiquitously.
Conference co-chair Detlef Stammer emphasized the vital role of actionable climate science in policy formulation. He noted that the conference demonstrated both the progress achieved and the remaining gaps in climate science and policy integration.
The outcomes of the conference, held for the first time in Africa, will be encapsulated in the Kigali Declaration. This document will urge the global community to act immediately to combat climate change and advocate for substantial increases in global investment in equitable and accessible climate science and services.
Helen Cleugh, the other co-chair, pointed out that the conference took place in Africa, a region highly vulnerable to climate change impacts. Cleugh stressed the need for more research funding in the Global South to empower local scientists and strengthen indigenous knowledge with advanced tools, data, and expertise.
Despite years of scientific advice and international agreements, greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise. The first World Climate Research Programme Open Science Conference took place in 2011, with carbon dioxide concentrations at about 390 parts per million. They have now increased to approximately 420 parts per million.
This rise in greenhouse gases is accelerating sea level rise, glacier retreat, and ocean heat, contributing to this year likely being the hottest on record. Frequent surpassing of the critical 1.5°C benchmark is anticipated, affecting ecosystems, economies, and society at large.
Experts at the conference expressed growing concerns about a fundamental shift in atmospheric and ocean circulation patterns. They also raised questions about approaching key "tipping points," such as rapid and irreversible changes in ice sheets, sea-ice, the Amazon rainforest, and other critical Earth system components.
Among various issues discussed were impacts on food security, water availability, urban health, the carbon and water cycles, and regional climate change. The conference also focused on fostering the next generation of climate scientists through an Early and Mid-Career Researchers Symposium.
Guy P. Brasseur wrapped up the conference by discussing three technological revolutions that could pave the way for future progress: the quiet weather forecast revolution, the digital revolution, and the machine learning revolution. Brasseur emphasized that now is the time to democratize and operationalize scientific tools to inform citizens worldwide.