Rising CO2 concentration threatens all 17 SDGs, says WMO report 

What is the news? 

As per the report released by World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the rising concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) will impact all of the 17 United Nations-mandated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The WMO studied seven climate indicators — CO2 concentration, temperature, ocean acidification and heat, sea ice extent, glacier melt and sea-level rise. It found that rising CO2 concentration due to human activities was a key driver of global climate change. 

What are the consequences of the rising CO2 concentration? 

First, rising CO2 concentration and increasing global temperatures would negatively impact efforts to combat climate change under the SDG 13, if left unchecked. 

Second, uncontrolled rising CO2 emissions would be indirectly responsible for risks related to the remaining six climate indicators, namely temperature, ocean acidification and heat, sea ice extent, glacier melt and sea-level rise. 

Third, rising CO2 in water would cause ocean acidification, directly affecting SDG indicator 14.3.1 which addresses marine acidity. This would affect the global goal on tackling poverty, SDG 1. 

Fourth, this would also result in food insecurity (SDG indicator 2.1.2), particularly in low-income and rural areas dependent on local catch. 

Fifth, both food insecurity and loss of livelihood may drive conflicts related to resource management. It will threaten regional peace and stability (SDG 16.1). 

Sixth, ocean acidification caused by rising CO2 may threaten progress of several SDGs besides the SDG 14 about life below water. 

Seventh, extreme events attributed to rising temperature affect rainfall patterns and groundwater availability. This leads to a higher risk of water scarcity, directly affecting SDG 6 on access to water.  

What are the recommendations? 

With improved education (SDG 4), global partnerships (SDG 17) and sustainable consumption (SDG 12) we can mitigate climate risks.

The report aims to contribute to the sustainable development agenda and to inspire leaders to take bolder climate action. 

Source: This post is based on the article “Rising CO2 concentration threatens all 17 SDGs, says WMO report ” published in the Down to Earth on 23rd September 2021.