Report Warns Climate Change Threatens 1.5M Australians

(MENAFN) A new government report released on Monday highlights an alarming forecast for Australia, warning that up to 1.5 million people could be at risk of heat-related deaths and rising sea levels by 2050 unless decisive action is taken to combat climate change.

Australia's first National Climate Risk Assessment also revealed that by 2030, nearly 600,000 people will be living in areas vulnerable to sea-level rise, as reported by media.

The findings come just days before the Australian federal government is expected to announce its emissions target for 2035. The report projects that under a 1.5°C global warming scenario, sea levels would rise by 0.14 meters. However, in a 3°C warming scenario, the rise would be 0.54 meters, with Queensland facing the worst impact, home to 18 of the 20 most-exposed regions.

Looking ahead to 2090, the document predicts that more than 3 million homes across the country could be at risk from rising seas if global temperatures increase by more than 3°C.

In terms of heat-related fatalities, the report paints a stark picture: under a 3°C warming scenario, Sydney could see a 444% increase in heat-related deaths, while Melbourne’s death toll would climb by 259%. Even under a more modest 1.5°C rise, heat-related deaths in Sydney would surge by 103%, with Melbourne seeing a 60% increase.

"Australians are already living with the consequences of climate change today, but it's clear every degree of warming we prevent now will help future generations avoid the worst impacts in years to come," said Chris Bowen, Australia's Minister for Climate Change and Energy, in a statement.

The report further noted that global temperatures have already risen by 1.2°C compared to the pre-industrial period (1850-1900). However, Australia's climate has warmed by 1.5°C since national records began in 1910.

Under the 3°C scenario, the report warned that Australia’s native species could face severe disruptions, with up to 70% of native plants exposed to conditions outside their current tolerance, forcing them to either adapt, migrate, or face extinction.

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