Urgency of Climate Action: Insights from J. Srinivasan on Global Warming and Its Impact on India

J. Srinivasan, a leading climate scientist from the Indian Institute of Science, discussed the urgent need for action on climate change. He highlighted that 2023 was the warmest year on record, with global temperatures exceeding pre-industrial levels. Rising ocean temperatures are driving sea level rise, which poses a major threat to coastal areas and biodiversity. Heatwaves, such as those experienced in Europe and India, are becoming more frequent and deadly, especially for outdoor workers. Srinivasan emphasized advances in climate science, including better data collection and satellite technology, but noted that long-term weather predictions remain uncertain.

He warned that global temperatures could rise by 4°C this century, causing severe impacts on agriculture, water supplies, and economies. India faces specific challenges, such as declining groundwater levels, which could worsen conditions for farmers. Srinivasan stressed the importance of education and awareness in combating climate change and urged governments to act before disasters become inevitable.

Urgency of Climate Action: Insights from J. Srinivasan on Global Warming and Its Impact on India

J. Srinivasan, a well-known climate scientist from the Divecha Centre for Climate Change and the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, shared his thoughts on climate change in an interview with C.P. Rajendran. With decades of experience in climate research since 1982, Srinivasan stressed the importance of understanding the global warming crisis and its far-reaching effects on people worldwide.

He pointed out that 2023 was the hottest year ever recorded, with global temperatures rising 1.35°C above pre-industrial levels. What’s particularly alarming is that 90% of this warming is happening in the oceans, leading to higher sea levels and more intense storms, especially in tropical areas. Srinivasan also warned that climate change could have serious health consequences, such as increased deaths from malnutrition, malaria, and heat stress. Poor air quality, another result of climate change, could worsen conditions like asthma.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe around the world. Srinivasan mentioned the deadly 2003 heatwave in Europe, which killed over 70,000 people. He also highlighted that India faces heatwaves every year, with temperatures sometimes reaching 50.5°C in certain regions. These extreme conditions often lead to deaths, particularly among those who work outdoors.

Despite advancements in climate science, such as better data collection, improved computer models, and the use of satellites for detailed global observations, predicting long-term weather patterns remains difficult. For example, forecasting India’s monsoon is still a challenge due to the unpredictable nature of rainfall.

Srinivasan warned that if greenhouse gas emissions continue at their current rate, the Earth’s temperature could rise by 4°C by the end of the 21st century. This would result in more intense heatwaves, droughts, and coastal flooding, severely affecting agriculture, water supplies, and economies. He also noted that climate change could worsen natural disasters like landslides and floods, especially in areas with poor urban planning.

He emphasized the urgent need to take action against climate change. While some people still deny its existence, the scientific community is clear: human activities are the primary cause of global warming. Srinivasan believes that raising awareness and educating the public and governments is crucial to encourage action before it’s too late.

Srinivasan also discussed the challenges India faces with water scarcity and declining groundwater levels, which could make life harder for farmers and impact agriculture. As climate change intensifies, he stressed the importance of preparing for more frequent extreme weather events and ensuring that infrastructure can handle these challenges.

In conclusion, Srinivasan’s insights highlight the urgent need to address climate change. From rising temperatures and health risks to water shortages and extreme weather, the impacts are widespread and severe. He calls for immediate action, better planning, and increased awareness to mitigate these effects and protect future generations.