Record heatwave: the facts that marked the year 2024
In a segment on CBN Radio, Marco Bravo discusses key environmental and sustainability issues that emerged in 2024. He highlights several pressing problems: 1. **Record Heat Waves**: The planet experienced its highest recorded temperatures, particularly in Europe, exceeding 50 degrees Celsius. This impacted agriculture, public health, and biodiversity, prompting a call for communities to prepare for extreme temperatures. 2. **Deforestation in the Amazon**: Unfortunately, deforestation rates increased by 15% from the previous year, with wildfires affecting areas as large as the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The Amazon's significance in regulating climate and rainfall in Latin America is underscored. 3. **Plastic Pollution**: A staggering 12 million tons of plastic were dumped into oceans, contributing to the pervasive microplastic contamination affecting marine life and humans, leading to health concerns. 4. **Water Crisis**: Major cities like Jakarta faced severe water shortages, and Brazil experienced its worst drought on record, highlighting the need for responsible water consumption. 5. **Extreme Weather Events**: The year was marked by intense hurricanes, floods, and droughts, stressing the complexity of climate events and the importance of international policies. Bravo also references the COP29 discussions, which aimed to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. As temperatures have already reached this threshold, the focus shifts to supporting developing nations facing climate-related losses. He encourages reflection on advancements in green technology, such as electric vehicles and renewable energy sources, and emphasizes the importance of conservation and biodiversity efforts in Brasil and the EU. Moreover, Bravo promotes the idea of reducing single-use plastics and adopting reusable items, as well as fostering grassroots movements and environmental education led by youth. In conclusion, he urges listeners to consider how they can contribute positively to addressing these challenges as 2024 comes to an end.