It’s so important to understand what’s going on with our planet and the impact of human activities on it, especially given the challenges we’re facing. It’s so helpful to have statistics to help us understand the scale of things like climate change, the loss of resources and biodiversity. These numbers are a stark reminder that we need to make some changes, and quickly! It’s so important to embrace sustainable practices and do our best to help the Earth’s delicate ecosystems.
Global Temperature Rise
1.1°C (2°F) above pre-industrial levels
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the global average temperature has already risen by 1.1°C (2°F) above pre-industrial levels due to human-induced greenhouse gas emissions. This temperature increase has led to more frequent and severe weather events, rising sea levels, and disruptions to ecosystems worldwide.
Carbon Dioxide Concentration
419 parts per million (ppm)
The concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere, a primary driver of climate change, has reached a staggering 419 parts per million (ppm) as of May 2022. This level is unprecedented in at least 800,000 years and continues to rise, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.
Plastic Pollution
8 million metric tons enter oceans annually
Each year, an estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic waste enters the world’s oceans, threatening marine life and disrupting fragile ecosystems. This staggering amount of plastic pollution highlights the need for better waste management practices and a shift towards more sustainable materials.
Deforestation Rate
10 million hectares of forest lost per year
Deforestation, driven by factors such as agriculture, urbanization, and illegal logging, is occurring at an alarming rate. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 10 million hectares of forest are lost each year, contributing to biodiversity loss, soil erosion, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
Water Scarcity
2.1 billion people lack access to safe drinking water
Despite water being a fundamental human right, a staggering 2.1 billion people worldwide lack access to safe drinking water, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Water scarcity, exacerbated by climate change and unsustainable consumption, poses a significant threat to human health, food security, and economic development.
Species Extinction
1 million species at risk of extinction
The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) estimates that 1 million plant and animal species are at risk of extinction due to human activities, such as habitat loss, overexploitation, pollution, and climate change. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need to protect biodiversity and preserve the intricate web of life on our planet.
11.7% of global energy consumption
Despite the growing adoption of renewable energy sources, fossil fuels still dominate global energy consumption. In 2020, renewable energy accounted for only 11.7% of total energy consumption, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Accelerating the transition to clean and sustainable energy sources is crucial for mitigating climate change and reducing air pollution.
These statistics paint a sobering picture of the challenges we face in achieving a sustainable future. However, they also serve as a call to action, reminding us of the urgency to address these issues and implement effective solutions. By embracing sustainable practices, investing in renewable energy, reducing waste, and protecting biodiversity, we can work towards a more resilient and environmentally responsible world for future generations.