EU officials sound the alarm: These severe climate risks threaten Europe

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European Environment Agency (EEA) Director Leena Ylä-Mononen said that to ensure the resilience of our societies, European and national leaders must take immediate action to reduce climate risks “both through rapid emissions cuts and decisive adaptation strategies and measures”. declaration

According to the EEA, Europe is the fastest warming continent. Since the 1980s, warming in mainland Europe has been twice as fast as the global average.

“Serious threat to earnings”

In the report, researchers name 36 major climate risks, from the effects of drought and heat to floods, fires and financial consequences. Broadly speaking, experts cite five main areas where climate developments pose existential threats: ecosystems, nutrition, health, infrastructure, as well as economy and finance.

The risks posed by heat and drought in terms of crop cultivation affect not only the south but also the Central European countries. “Persistent and widespread droughts, in particular, pose a significant threat to productivity, food security and drinking water supplies,” the EEA said.

Climate increases insurance premiums

Heat is the biggest and most urgent climate risk to human health, researchers write. Those who work outdoors, the elderly, and people living in poorly insulated apartments or urban areas with strong heat island effects are particularly at risk.

Europe’s economic and financial system is also affected, the EEA writes. For example, extreme climate conditions can lead to increases in insurance premiums, jeopardize assets and mortgages, and lead to higher government spending and borrowing costs. (SDA/obf)

Source : Blick