Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

KPBS Midday Edition

U.N. Report: Avoiding Climate Change Possible With 'Substantial Emission Reductions'

U.N. Report: Avoiding Climate Change Possible With 'Substantial Emission Reductions'
U.N. Report: Avoiding Climate Change Possible With 'Substantial Emission Reductions'
GUEST:David Victor, a professor of international relations and director of the Laboratory on International Law and Regulation at UC San Diego, is one of the authors of a report. He's also author of the book "Global Warming Gridlock."

The effects of climate change are undeniable, but governments are still behind the curve in taking action to slow the spread of greenhouse gases.

The U.N.'s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has just released its fifth report on the rapidly closing window of time to take action on reducing greenhouse gases.

The report found that greenhouse gas emissions grew faster between 2000 and 2010 than the three previous decades, and in spite of policies designed to reduce emissions.

Advertisement

“Climate policies in line with the 2 degrees Celsius goal need to aim for substantial emission reductions,” said Ottmar Edenhofer, a co-chair of the working group who published the report in a press release.

“There is a clear message from science: To avoid dangerous interference with the climate system, we need to move away from business as usual,” he said.

David Victor, a professor of international relations and director of the Laboratory on International Law and Regulation at UC San Diego, is one of the authors of a report. He's also author of the book "Global Warming Gridlock."

A big decision awaits some voters this April as the race for San Diego County’s Supervisor District 1 seat heats up. Are you ready to vote? Check out the KPBS Voter Hub to learn about the candidates, the key issues the board is facing and how you can make your voice heard.