As the world continues on its current trajectory, the future of Earth in 2080 is looking increasingly bleak. According to a recent study, a third of the global population will be living in dangerously hot conditions by 2080, with entire countries in West Africa and the Persian Gulf falling into the extreme heat zone.
The study, conducted by the World Resources Institute, found that if global temperatures continue to rise, an additional 1.2 billion people will be exposed to extreme heat by 2080. This will be particularly severe in West Africa and the Persian Gulf, where temperatures could reach a staggering 50 degrees Celsius.
The consequences of such extreme heat could be catastrophic. In areas already suffering from water scarcity, extreme heat could lead to even greater water shortages, with devastating effects on food production and health. In addition, the study found that the number of extreme heat days could increase from an average of 20 days per year to more than 100 days per year in some regions.
To mitigate the effects of extreme heat, the study recommends investing in cooling infrastructure, such as air conditioning and cooling centers, as well as improving access to clean water and sanitation. In addition, the study suggests increasing the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to reduce emissions and slow the rate of global warming.
The study also highlights the need for governments to take urgent action to reduce emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy. Without decisive action, the future of Earth in 2080 could be one of extreme heat and water scarcity, with devastating consequences for human health and the environment.
It is clear that the world needs to take urgent action to reduce emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy. This means investing in renewable energy sources, improving access to clean water and sanitation, and investing in cooling infrastructure. Only then can we hope to avoid the catastrophic effects of extreme heat and water scarcity by 2080.
